A far more successful method would be to increase earnings, reduce spending, and save up.

Yep, this.I see so many properties with our clients in Denver and the mountains that advertise as "great for an STR" or "is a successful Airbnb," but in fact that municipality bans non-owner occupied short-term rentals or I know the STR license doesn't transfer to any new owner. 

My ex made this contract behind my back when we were negotiating a divorce, (he knew I was getting the property in the divorce). 

For affordable "first-time" BRRRRs, a lot of people look at some nearby markets - Temple/Killeen/Waco etc a little bit north are some good ones that people have had success in

Nice success story.   

Has anyone had success negotiating a premium that is comparable to the local rate for airbnb's/vrbo?

Much success

Negotiate Negotiate and Negotiate.

Rent is 8200 (non-negotiable)   He has had lottery guys steal cash from drawer etc- last November. 

Those that respond “$0” or something ridiculous, you can request income documentation from them to justify.Don’t be afraid to share with them how much your property taxes & Insurance increased and that YOU cannot afford to absorb them.ALWAYS get an increase or something of value annually or tenants will start thinking they should never have an increase, making future increases that much more difficult to negotiate.