My properties are in California's Gold Country--where there are many lovely people, and many low-lifes (oh, did I say that??).

Yes, discounting the rent for a person for their eyes and ears on the property is worth it's wait in gold- but make sure you choose the right person, not necessarily the person that talks the most! 

I then followed up the chain of title only to find out someone bought it 3 to 5 days before the sale..

You have family that has worked hard and struck gold in the Bay area.

You can use something as simple as a groupchat, whatsapp group, facebook group, or email chain.

Make other accommodations for her, is there any other place she can chain it up?

The issues come in when the investor buys the property and how good they are at doing their own title search and determining a clear chain of title.  

Beside chain of title, it would be helpful to see loan documents  to determine if wife had signed promissory note, or if just deceased signed note. 

Gold fixtures are making a comeback and they look great paired with light green or light blue accentsFor example in your bathroom gold fixtures, light floors, and maybe a niche and small hint of light blue. 

Especially post covid with all the supply chain issues that followed.  4-6 months is a much more realistic timeline and if the builder is off any worth you might have to get in line.  4-6 months is assuming you have closed on the property, permits are in place, a contract is signed, and the weather allows me to start today.