Someone may have already mentioned this, but I created a second character just so I could have a permanent tent in my northern camp/park area. I love the way it looks and fleshes out the "campground". It is very near the igloo/tent area.
I am also using my second character to get more clothing mannequins.
To me, the town would feel not very populated, despite having 11 houses. The secdondary balances it out to 12 and I wouldn't want to be the only human in town. My secondary's name (when I make him) is Marco.
I wish i had thought about the design slots. i just spent hours laying a path that takes up most of my design slots now i kinda want to make a second character and do it over again. just so i can get more slots open for myself. Also some people have friends and brothers and sisters and don't want them playing on their main character.
The Design thing is actually smart and something I've never thought of.
My first house will always be my house, where each room as a different theme, usually my favorites, but then I go on to make a Castle with Kingly items and what not. Then I go and make a School.