I think  a promissory note secured by the property would then transfer title to you and they would have a note secured by the property.

Yes , we do a mortgage and promissory note for each deal to protect them- but the attorney prepares that included in her closing cost. 

Since I’m purchasing with cash, there will be no notes.

Outside of the research you have noted, I'd suggest:- go to open houses and look at properties- find your local RE investment group (and join!)

Buying and selling notes ( don't have to fix toilets at 2 am).

@Rob Bergeron - also worth noting is that while sales are down, prices are up 5% YoY and properties at lower/avg price points are moving quickly. 

Are you wanting to buy the note?

However it is quick to get sticky as both sides of the transaction can start to question the agent’s loyalty.

No other credit score factors changed during this timeframe.Please note that even if you pay off your credit card every month your utilization can hurt you because it is based on your statement balance. 

The plan is to sell it with owner financing, and then selling that note as a partial to recoup our initial investment.