I actually already data mine my target county's public records for homeowners with equity, and I could easily re-run the analysis for Seniors who have owned their house forever.

It appears properties on probate can either be sold privately or through public auction.

I honestly have still found better deals on smaller property publicly listed than larger multi-faimly publicy listed.

There may be direct (non Fannie Mae) lenders in your local community. 

Looking for non traditional financing bc I am newly self employed.

If using a lender this is a non issue.

I saw a Facebook ad for something called Hipcamp, essentially an AirBNB for camping sites, public and private.

Scott M West The promise of future work is 99% non-existent to us contractors, just so you know.

The information is publicly available on county tax auditor websites. 

As your primary residence, you should purchase the best house you can afford with your kids education and extra curricular activities in mind.Problem with SF public schools is the lottery system, but that's a whole other discussion.