Long-distance roommate matching before you move to SF
Use a video call to meet every person who will live in the home. Tour the actual room live, confirm the address, and ask the same questions you would ask in person: rent, lease, schedules, cleaning, guests, and move-in process.
Exchange references and verify who is on the lease. Do not pay to reserve a room solely because a listing looks polished or a host creates urgency. Get all financial terms in writing and use a payment method with a record.
If possible, arrange a short temporary stay and see long-term rooms yourself. A remote match can work, but it should rest on evidence, not a convenient story.