My mom is also not a homeowner and has never been. 

Will you still be living in the home?

But would still prefer driving distance, so CA and South of Pismo beach ideally. 

Our company has flipped 5 homes in Northern Colorado over the past 5 years and I've gained a lot of XP through other people's risks. 

Reason being for it is that insurance companies are getting tighter and tighter, and having a claim on your home can prevent you from getting further policies in the future and subject to much higher rates. 

This officially puts you on title as the owner. 

I'ts buying a multi family property as owner occupant and getting rent on the remaining units.It's lower down payment since you are owner occupant and lower rates too.Easy way to get started.Feel free to PM me with any questions.

The only insurance any legitimate private lender will ask you to buy is a lender's title policy and fire/hazard insurance (or landlord insurance, or homeowner insurance, etc., as appropriate).

If not and you have different carriers for you home and auto insurance, see if the other carrier can do an Umbrella for you. 

My first suggestion is to only look out of state after you have "cut your teeth" closer to home where you can experience and learn from the process way more quickly.