I'd like [my last name].com but a domain squatter has it and wanted over $10,000.
I put in a low ball offer and they wouldn't budge. I told them they were crazy. I have an uncommon name that very few people would want so I may try your tactic.
You could try having a relative offer $40 and steadfastly refuse to negotiate any higher than $50. Might make your offer sound a lot better. Or it might backfire because now they think two people want it.