You can build in sound proofing, but honestly I'd go with 2-3 floors for each so you don't have the tenant downstairs complaining about the one upstairs walking around at night.For costs-it could be more or less than new retail-depends on finishes of each. 

In your experience is does the method of prospecting depend on the types of commercial real estate you are interested in working with?! 

The cost of a quiet title action is between $1200-$1500 depending on which attorney you use.

This depends on the market you are seeking, but in Tampa where I am you cannot get a decent STR property under $400k or so. 

Depending on your portfolio, a few approaches are easier to get up and running quickly!

It depends what your goals are, but I'm inferring that this is a comfort/long term investment as opposed to a quick flip.

Excessive complaints or three violations in three years could lead to losing the ability to operate​.Impact on Neighborhoods: Non-owner-occupied STRs (Type 2) may cause friction in residential neighborhoods, as they often function like businesses, which can disrupt the local community atmosphere.Recent Regulations (2024 Updates):1) STR operators must obtain a permit for either Type 1 or Type 2 properties, depending on whether the owner lives on-site.2) Platforms like Airbnb are required to remove any listings that lack a valid permit.3) New noise and occupancy regulations apply, with stricter enforcement through permit revocations and finesThese regulations are part of the city's efforts to balance the benefits of STRs with the preservation of neighborhood quality and local safety standards.4o

What you should do just depends on you, what you're spending for the property, how bad do you want it, what other opportunities are there, etc. 

People buy investment properties for decades, even more depending on their strategy.

Sometimes can depend on the judge.