This is the right mindset although I'd have to caution on those comps, very low probability of it turning beyond 4 figure best case or 5 figures in fantastic case, might as well buy a lotto for 6 figure expectation. It's as good as monopoly money and I always ask for cash or time. Time is good for me since I work 3 remote jobs so whatever one is willing to give up I can do better balancing acts.

#2 and #3 are excellent. I also might add : "Be willing to walk". Desperation signals compromises that they will exploit. Know exactly what you are offering to the business and walk when they say "thats too much , impossible, bad engineers ask for money like you". 100% those roles have high turn over, stress, and managerial issues.

Bad managers penny pinch because they can't use resources efficiently. Good managers pay more for talent because they are competent at managing resources.