Choose for the way you will actually live—not just the week you fall in love with the beach.
A second home is partly a financial decision and partly a lifestyle purchase. Start by defining your expected use: weekends, winters, family vacations, retirement transition, occasional rental, or some combination.
Include taxes, HOA or condo fees, insurance, utilities, maintenance, furnishings, travel, property management and a reserve for repairs or assessments. A purchase price comparison alone can be misleading.
A condo can simplify exterior maintenance and provide amenities, but adds association governance and shared financial exposure. A house provides more control but makes you responsible for the entire exterior, grounds and storm preparation.
Visit in and out of peak season. Drive to groceries, medical care, restaurants and the airport. Experience the traffic and noise near the property. If you expect to retire there eventually, evaluate the area as a resident rather than only as a vacationer.