Until you have gained experience on rehab I would suggest getting a few quotes for scope of work. 2-4 contractors until you have developed an established relationship with them and you are able to trust their numbers fully.There are several contractors that are on the boards pretty frequently.

I frequently get gifts from my clients, not a request for me to give them $$, LOL!

Sacramento might shift "purple" in the next decade or two due to the Bay Are influx, but judge appointments (eg, those who preside over eviction proceedings) are long term and don't cycle out particularly frequently.

Being new to commercial real estate, I want to ask for general advice on BP regarding methods used for finding an audience big enough for this larger, less-liquid property?

Being new to commercial real estate, I want to ask for general advice on BP regarding methods used for finding an audience big enough for this larger, less-liquid property?

Talk to the neighbors (they're frequently a wealth of information).

I invest places I’ve lived and frequently visit

How much this will cost you depends on what you are looking to attract, family tends to stay longer so marketing fee may not be as steep over time.  1b/1b may get a turnover more frequently and require you to put more money aside assuming you may have to pay a marketing fee. 

Is this something I should be prepare for as a frequent, infrequent or rare part of the process?

If it is currently fully rented, how frequently do those units turnover?