I've done the whole living in a base you didnt want for many months, going through commuter hell, paying for a crash pad, getting the crap schedules. You have to determine at some point what your QOL is worth.
There are companies out there who may not offer the massive bonuses but can hire you directly into left seat in the base you prefer.
Personally i skipped the direct entry captain spot at envoy just for that reason, and went with another company that gave me the same annual salary, put me in my home base right down the road and gives me minimal time on reserve but there was no attractive sign on bonus.
its up to your individual needs and goals really