Buy With Cash or Bank Loan?

[Bryan Parnell]

I almost have enough cash to buy a property outright.  The owners would like to stay in the property and rent.  Would it be a good idea to purchase the property with the cash I have and then offer them free rent to make up the difference for an agreed duration?  Or would it be best to get a conventional loan and charge regular rent to cover the mortgage?  The goal is actually to keep them in the house as I live overseas and I know they are good tenants and will take care of the house for a couple years until I return home.   

See any flaws or have any advice?