But being our first investment we are just unsure which is most beneficial to get a loan. 

There's a huge demand for it - it solves a problem in the housing market - but I'm just getting started and too skittish of the zoning personally.

If for no other reason the more predictable and lower maintenance costs are a huge benefit.  

I will say though peace of mind is huge.

In my experience, allowing these professionals to guide you can be highly beneficial, as they are likely to recommend properties they would be comfortable managing.

If this is common for the area specifically, and the tenant pool is used to this, then it may not be a huge deal. 

Welcome to the community and be ready for a huge amount of information at your finger tips.

Like mentioned it's also beneficial to keep up to date with what's happening in the area your STR is located, and make sure the decision makers are aware of hosts and what they bring to the community.

Those that could afford the huge mortgage bought a primary, built ADU and did STRs or MTRs in S.F.

Not every investor is willing to take on properties with these kinds of challenges, but if you can make it work, the rewards are huge.