After researching, it is clear that the best and most effective way to find properties and have reliable information is to utilize the MLS.

The effective outcome is the same, but with more flexibility retained by you.Also, when it comes time to look at placing a mortgage, I strongly encourage you to look at a variable rate, fixed term product.  

Let me be the Devil's advocate here. 

The disclosure statute, effective for instruments executed on or after August 1, 2013 and modeled in part on the condominium/townhome disclosure statute, requires a “multiple seller” of residential real estate selling on a contract for deed to provide certain statutorily mandated disclosures.

All are effective but my budget is running low.

Transfer of funds and repayments takes effect.

Look at the National Association of Consumer Advocates.

I'm not advocating Lonnie deals, Curt Smith but you ask why do small deals instead of large deals?

Keep your eyes on the prize, which is reinstating in a timely and cost effective manner for your purposes.  

Personally, I tend to think that we have enough other fundamentals going for us in this region (wine, tourism, proximity to bay area...) that it won't have a huge effect, but I'm curious what others think.