I wouldn't worry.
What you are looking for is very doable.
There is a HUGE supply of rust free, wonderful cars in Southern California, and forum members down there who can help you with getting it inspected, finding a good mechanic or shop to give it the thumbs up, and help you get it shipped (or you could fly in, drive home.) Just get the $10 one way trip permit first.
Los Angeles is a true car culture, with owners who really care about their cars, and there are so many good ones, the abundance of mint ones drives the price down, (there is no snow, salt and rust to worry about) and the owners really love and care for their cars, and the shops, detailers, carwashes etc really cater to their owners, it is a serious business.
Look at this honey that just turned up, in Los Angeles, and one of our savvy members just nabbed.
1990 300CE Adoption Announcement
Look on your own, and know often the very best ones change hands on forums like this one, and are NOT advertised.
For example, Kevin ("Powerpig") back east, in Maryland has a collection that is pretty big, and is thinking about letting this honey of a 300CE go:
With the rare and coveted factory Sportline package, and a Remus exhaust,
it is a gem, if you enjoy the color.
Looking To Trade part of the Collection
And its owner, a very well liked and active forum member, has a sterling reputation.
The people here are REALLY friendly and helpful, when others seek aid buying a car out of state.
I was able to help a person who purchased a 1980 300SD from ebay, and lived in Chicago, get the car from San Francisco to her.
Helped with title and transfer, and setting up shipping, and some minor pre-shipping repairs were performed on the car.
Good luck!! This could be a lot easier than you think. It has been done and documented MANY times here.