A HOL LOT OF SENSE.

THE holidays are over but millions of us are planning on a permanent place in the sun.

Nearly 1.4million Britons own holiday homes overseas - and research by Saga shows that number will soar in the next five years.

It predicts 3.1million people will own second homes abroad by 2008.

France is the preferred place, with more than a third planning to cross the Channel.

But buying overseas is not a simple matter.

Financial director Roger Tyson and his wife Iona bought a cottage in Torreveja, Spain, 14 years ago.

The couple, both 62, from Hythe, Kent, paid pounds 34,000 for the house, now worth pounds 75,000.

"We bought it partly as a holiday home and partly as somewhere to retire to. We were well looked after by the property agents and buying it was straightforward," says Roger.

Home insurance was arranged with Atlas but four years ago the couple transferred to Saga to save money.

They hadn't had to claim until last year when their house was broken into. "They even left a banana skin on the floor," says Roger.

The total insurance claim amounted to pounds 257 from damage to a door and lost cash and cards.

But as well as insurance you should work out if it will be worth visiting in the winter.

You also need to look at the types of property available and the cost.

Tips on local estate agents and other organisations are also important. And be aware of local regulations on house buying.

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SHOCK: Roger Tyson