I passed the prelicensing course and almost became a real estate agent 14 years ago but life circumstances and fear pushed me to choose security over freedom at that point. 

Good find, unfortunate circumstances 

I don’t know why you’re being advised to go through an eviction based on the circumstances you presented.You wouldn’t file an eviction against a tenant who has stated they’re moving out, and then voluntarily moved out and returned the keys as agreed.An eviction (unlawful detainer action) is only done to recover possession of a property that someone is refusing to voluntarily return to you.If you still need to recover money from them after they’re out, then you typically go through small claims.

This is probably something not many people can anticipate because of the circumstances (COVID, Rep. to Dem., etc.,)  but what will the market do with a transition from Trump to Biden? 

He is claiming "extenuating circumstances" without stating what it is.

The less that comes out of your mouth to convince her and the more she hears and learns elsewhere from an independent source, the better.This may sound sexist and unenlightened, but it's been my experience that lot of women are raised to want two things before all others: babies and the appearance of a middle-class life.

Without knowing your deadline or life circumstances, have you considered borrowing from family and/or selling your residence and renting/buying something significantly more modest.

The women is still in the house and the man has moved out.

Meaning if one tenant moves out, we do NO under any circumstances refund their "share" of the security deposit.

I have done a lot of research and read a lot, but with covid and the circumstances, not sure if now is the best time to jump in!!