Looks like we're keeping the 900, it's a great phone for her anyways. The only thing that she's a little disappointed to be left out on is the added Skype functionality of WP8, she's began to use Skype at work, but hopefully it will be updated soon or with WP7.8. Otherwise she's happy with it, so I'm happy.
Not sure if the Titan 2 is available but it is the best device on the market for windows phone.
I could argue that
But in terms of value, the original Titan is definitely the best 2nd gen WP device in terms of value, if you don't mind missing out on LTE (which just launched today in my region, but on another carrier). The 900, 800, 710, and 610 are currently the only "current" WP devices being sold up here in Canada.
Regarding 3 year contracts, if you want to get the phone in Canada for a reasonable price, it truly is the only option. It's not like a phone's free on a 3 year or $50 on a 2 year, it's free on a 3 year or $400 on a 2 year, so that they can force you into a longer contract. While buying outright can be worth it in the long run, she's made it clear that she wants a low up front cost.