I don't know any personally but the Bay Area is such a huge market I'm sure you can find someone.

My best lender when I was active was a private person. 

I am sending mailers, but would rather not list my personal residence or use a PO box.

Personally I think it depends on the type of investing opportunities you're looking for and where or why we are seeing an increase in market activity.

Person A has the renter's insurance while Person B does not, but Person B's belongings is "mostly covered" by Person A's Renter's Insurance.

I have not done this personally but I do have several clients who are in year 1 or 2 of utilizing this strategy. 

"Staying' in the home or 'moving in'You can't 1031 into a personal residence.

I’m a broker/owner of both a general brokerage firm and property management firm.My advice is to find an agent that is thoroughly invested in you, as a client and as a person, and understands your goals.

They want an “experienced “ person with me. 

I am not a burn-the-boats type of person, and I am more productive with a backup plan.