When I've brought up similar points to the parent's, one response was that Mars offers solid ground which provides a base for heavy equipment (factories, etc.) and has minerals. I don't nearly enough to weigh all the factors.
Think of that - in our Venus cloud city, humans can wander around outside without pressure suits (though they still need breathable air and protection from other environmental hazards). No pressurization is needed inside facilities. Machines designed to function in Earth's gravity and pressure will work on Venus (ignoring other significant environmental issues). Venus, in that regard, is more economical and safer than Mars. I don't know how that balances with other costs and risks of the two planets.