Sure, some individual market's are anomalies outside this norm.

Can anyone advise based on their experience which will be cheaper in the long run?

Any insights or experiences you can share about similar projects in this area would be greatly appreciated.Thank you!

Ask how many units they manage and how much experience they have.

My (very limited) experience lines up with what @Scott E. said. 

. - MTR guests expect a hospitality experience, much like STR.

Hi Kalon, we share the same experience.

Some have previously mentioned Chicago, and I can say from experience this has been a great market for house hacking due to the diversity in the housing market and sheer number of multifamily properties.

Value is also important as well as experience and FICO. 

As long as you don't argue with them or make them mad, you should not experience more than the usual brain damage of getting permits.