(Owner's Equity)I know you get to sell more policies with each LLC, but that is not a tactic for mom and pop investors.

At least in LA, CA most I think would not attempt the unannouced door knocking snooping tactic.

I had to compile a list of answers/delay tactics, because they would catch me off guard and sometimes I'd say yes when I should not have, etc. 

With all due respect,  I think raising the rent to something unappealing to her is absolutely the wrong tactic.  

While it is not a difficult process (I have done my own evictions), unless you know exactly what you are doing you will make a mistake and it will cost you way more than an attorney would.I would try many of the tactics suggest here in the right situation but I agree with @Joe Splitrock I think you are dealing with a pro and you need your A-game or will be worse off than before.

South of Boston we can get high efficiency FHW units installed for much less than the "new heating systems will sink you $10k and wipe you out" scare tactic excuse people use for not investing, not sure how that cost translates to NY.  

and after waiting weeks for a tenant to return the lease, changed my tactic.  

If it just hit the market, the low cost could a marketing tactic to get a bidding war going.If it sold, it will hurt appraisals.

This tactic needs to be treated with care as you can get yourself in trouble if you do it wrong.

My advice is to give him his money back, and tell him you're not interested in renting to someone who springs new occupants on you, and who threatens to sue when you balk at his bait and switch tactics.