These are national lenders that specialize in making loans to investors.

My question is, is anyone aware, had good experience with and could recommend and insurance companies that either specialize in high risk properties.

I've seen anything from 1.6% in unincorporated Travis County to nearly 3% in areas with special utility assessments, etc. 

Just search for a few that specialize in real estate in your area, ask for references and meet with each of them.

I've kicked around the idea of diversifying into short-term rentals (not switching, just adding one or a small handful of properties over time to supplement my regular portfolio). 

I specialized in Single-Family Homes (SFH) and Multi-Family Properties and I am very passionate about helping investors and agents succeed.

CA is special because they can not raise the taxes without higher approval so they do bonds, etc. which take lower approval for things. 

@Mike BellomBelow are some tips to find a Local CPA that specializes in real estate1) Attend a Local REIA / Real Estate meetup and see who other investors are using as a CPA2) Network with other investors from your City/State that you find on bigger pockets and see who they use as a CPA3) Look for CPA's with good google/yelp reviews where 'real estate' is mentioned in the review.4) Verify that your CPA is licensed.

It’s simple anyone can invest in it you don’t need any special skills, talent, or high IQ.

It is not just the HOA fee, but the potential for special assessments.