Just wanted to avoid mixing family and business  

Here is some info: SF STR FAQAssuming the info is up-to-date, it must be your permanent residence (you must live at the property for a minimum 275 days a year), you can rent unhosted a max of 90 nights a year, you need a business license, and you need to pay the city $925 for a STR certificate.

Short-term rentals can be a great starting point, especially in markets with high tourism or business travel.

I am looking to network and build a strong business relationship with a local real estate agent.

From what Ive read, it looks like I may have to get a business certificate to do this in SF but Im not sure what that entails or what else is involved?

Please contact me on here before you do any business with him.

That said, I've seen many of these carriers are pulling away from habitation exposures (non-renewing a good portion of that business).  

He had a tech job and we talked the business and he was legit and when meeting the family, they were very respectful. 

"Chasing" after a tenant is not good business and will waste a ton of your time.

But sure as heck not impossible, it just takes a commitment to learning a very complex detailed facet of business and regulations.