In all my years in the business I have never had to deal with a community property state, so I can not be of much help there but my 2 cents worth.
1. This is permissible (joint credit reports) in community property states. 202.5(c)(2)(iv). Circumstances that allow requiring the spouse's signature on the note is in 202.7(d)(5) and its Commentary.
2. As for as how title is taken to the property is not, IMO, a matter that can be dictated. But again I am not familiar with all the intricacies of community property states.
(I know I already addressed this in a PM, but maybe this will help get further discussions going.)
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The opinions expressed are mine and they are not to be taken as legal advice.