CAT, if that arrangement works for you, then fine; but I think you're being very irresponsible by making such a recommendation to others.

I worked for one college, two universities, and several training centers during the many years I lived in Jiangsu. ALL of the them provided a LEGAL Z visa for me (otherwise I wouldn't work for them). Having a proper Z visa did not keep me from changing provided housing, if it wasn't suitable, etc. If anything, I think an L visa would make you weaker in this way, because the employer knows you haven't many options. They don't want the embarrassment (losing face) with local immigration if their newly-arrived Z visa teacher walks out. They are under more pressure to make things work out for he FT.

Again, if that's how you get by in Jiangsu, more power to you, but readers should not forget that what you are suggesting to others is ILLEGAL, and if things turn against you, YOU will be the one who is fined, etc. Without a proper and legal Z visa you cannot file a grievance against the employer -- nothing -- because in the eyes of China, you are a 30-day tourist.

Please stop giving bad advice.