I am also looking for an MLS-only broker in SoCal but no success so far.

SF is a very unique market, and actually may be a great time to buy right now, especially if they can successfully turn the city around. 

How many successful STR arbitrages have you done?

Listing your property there ensures visibility.Build Relationships: When agents reach out, respond quickly, highlight your property’s amenities, and showcase your flexibility to meet displaced families’ needs.Highlight Insurance-Friendly Features: Emphasize features like flexible lease terms, utilities included, and a fully furnished setup to attract insurance placements.This approach has helped me successfully market to insurance companies.

It's always a little more challenging investing in out of state (I invested out of state for 15+ years) but you can still be successful doing it. 

I'm a retired engineer and have been successfully using income from these houses to support my retirement without dipping into retirement savings.I'm transitioning my business from rentals to a franchise and would consider selling one of my houses (5 br/4 ba - the other houses my son while he's still attending).

Congrats on all your success so far! 

Exit StrategyResale Planning: Research market trends for optimal selling timing.Long-Term Investment: Consider retaining the property as a rental post-graduation.Marketability: Choose a property with appeal to future students or young professionals.By following these steps, you can make a well-informed decision and ensure a successful investment that benefits both you and your student during their college years and beyond.Peter Derry PHD Properties 

How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

Congratulations on your success in your previous investments.