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Nope. A credit score doesn't change just because a loan is paid off. It may change by a point or two because you have less debt and your credit history is one month older; however, other factors of course come in to play, so one may not see a difference at all.

Closed accounts in good standing stay on your report for 10 years. It is a part of your history, so closed accounts in good standing will always affect your score until they drop off. That is why, when accounts drop off, people see a decline in their scores.

Do not close down any credit card account because doing so will cause your credit score to drop. Just don't use the cards if you don't want to, but leave the lines open. I don't think you have too many credit cards, and in your case having these cards is ok because you obviously know how to use credit wisely. Having a few cards isn't a bad thing. It would only get bad if you're the type of person who uses them to buy a lot of expensive things and carry high balances from month to month then end up paying never-ending interest charges and only the minimum monthly payment. I've never been a fan of American Express because I think they are over the top with their annual fees and other requirements for most of their products. However, the Blue card is not a bad idea since it has no annual fee and most Am Ex cards do come with some nice perks---but thats mostly IF you use the card enough to rack up the points. Just don't expect too much from American Express. They no longer have a very good reputation as a decent credit card company and since the recent credit crisis they've been actively reducing a lot of people's credit limit. How soon do you plan to buy your condo? If its within the next 6 months then forget about applying for American Express or any other credit card for now. Keep your credit score clean and in the 800s and avoid any new credit inquiries that might change it.

A paid off loan does not affect your score, but good payment history does go into your score.

not sure about the exact impact on a score. You get the benefit of the debt to income ratio so it is easier to get a loan though.

a loan in good standing will stay at least 10 years but nothing in place to force it off the report.

no you should see a fee points increase within 6 months. Yes your score only changes when a new event occurs. Up with more on time repayments or down with late payments