I've also heard of people going to the source at city hall or the probate court and asking nicely ( I plan to make my first trip today), but are there any other people out there making their own lists and finding success.

Don't threaten eviction court, it wouldn't stand, the judge would side with her because of her long rental history as long as she's current in rent, so make sure your notice is proper.  

If you dont pay him, good luck in small claims court when the judge reems you a new one.

One I am having to take to court (NOT small claims).

Best to settle it in small claims court at a latter date.

Some property managers will do it for less than 10%.Be careful using a friend at a discounted rate unless they have experience and could likely do a better job than a local property manager.Many property managers only charge the flat percentage rate which includes finding, advertising and screening applicants and showing up to court.  

Safeway doesn't declare 10,000 different business entities. 

As for that threat of a law suit, I would throw it right back at them and mention that they failed to disclose an environmental hazard that they either knew about or should have known about, and I am sure that my lawyer will consider this little oversight an attempt to defraud me, and I will happy enjoy that court fight. 

Even doing that, you are still going to have to notice the courts.

Assuming they pay up in full( with a cashiers check or cash only) the day before the court date with late fees, you are to have your attorney dismiss the case. that's just how it goes and yes the judge will dismiss if you go to court. some municipalities allow you to continue eviction if your file 3 times in a row for example, but your attorney needs to tell you your options for your municipality.