Buying a forclosure without all cash

[Lisa L.]

I'm just starting to research real estate as a passive investment choice. I own my primary residence in Seattle and know that even buying a personal home, cash bids often beat out financed bids. I have heard that's even more often the case when buying foreclosure properties. Where could I do research on this? Are there public records of the type of financing for purchases? 

I'm not in a hurry. At the earliest I'd be looking to buy in a couple years. A foreclosure may not turn out to be the best choice for us, and I may decide to invest a different way altogether. Thanks!