By Mi-Ling Stone Poole – DEAR MI-LING: My husband and I are contemplating buying a second home in Florida or Puerto Rico. We are having a hard time deciding where we want to live and exactly how much space we need to live comfortably.

I don’t feel like we need to buy a home as large as the one we already own. I’m looking forward to a home with less maintenance and something that I won’t need to spend a lot of time cleaning. As much as I would like a second home the thought of taking care of two homes is daunting.

Do you have any suggestions or ideas on how to make the right decision from a design standpoint?

Carrie

DEAR CARRIE: Purchasing a second home can mean a strain on the budget. I have several friends who own more than one home. If your pockets are deep it’s not usually a problem.

If you’re planning to live in your vacation home after you retire, consider a few options.

A one-level floor plan or a home with an elevator is a good bet. This will enable you to stay in your home longer once you are no longer able to climb a lot of stairs.

Install tile floors for easy cleanup, especially if you’re near the beach. Make sure the doors and rooms have wide entries so that if you need to use a wheel chair it will be accessible.

Consider a property in a gated area that will take care of your lawn and gardening as part of your homeowners association dues. That way when you’re living in your current home you will have no worries.

As far as deciding where you want to live, if the whole purpose is to be near the water or on the beach you might want to check out a townhome or an attached home. Remember location, location, location.

Don’t let the amenities sweep you away and take you farther from the view you desire. The ocean is your amenity.

PHOTO: COPELAND FURNITURE The Catalina Collection from Copeland Furniture is inspired by the organic forms of mid-century modern designers. The bed (about $1,958 in queen) is low and sleek, designed for a mattress only. The angled legs and recessed drawer on the bedside table (about $598) offer clean, unadorned lines. All pieces are made in Vermont of American black walnut. (www.copelandfurniture.com)

What design style would consider in your second home?