You gave notice before she reported a code violation, so if anyone looks like they are out for revenge it is the tenant.

A key point to keep in mind is that your dealing with family issues and the death of a family member ~ there may be fighting, lack of trust among the heir's, desire for revenge from something that happened in the past, etc., etc...When the estate is ready to sell and your ready to buy remember to check for old liens against the property that may need to be cleared ~ liens must be taken care of prior to closing a sale.A good title company can help you uncover potential issues with the property.

The desire for revenge and to get the money back is strong.

They are out for revenge for past injustice you and I had nothing to do with.