Um, I'm not sure I implied that we were. I just thought it would be helpful to be more specific about the ways in which bad agents have actually "subtracted value", i.e. genuine examples for people to be aware of. Naming the agents would be helpful too although I can see why people might be less likely to do that.

Well that's just too bloody cheeky for words! The first half-hour (or whatever) should always be free. That's like an estate agent charging you to tell you how much your house is worth!

I remember a regular poster on here actually posting a yes to this question-the agent that they approached actually pointed them to this site and saidthat they could save themselves the money if they desired as the info they needed for their visa type was all here and it was astraight forward case.

Nobody will name their agent while still "in the system" if they feel that the agent is perhaps not being as helpful as they could be or providing the service that is being paid for.However again some have posted post-grant about the experiences.

Well i reckon Agents are bloody wonderful....!!!!!!!!!!Do i mention we have our visa???

Cheers;)

We have our visas and did not use an agent.

I would not want to knock agents but everyone's case is different. Our visas were a doddle (Parent Contributory) and to employ an agent would have been a waste of money.
For others, though, Agents may be essential.

They are earning a crust and if people are satisfied then everyone is happy. I would not give my skills away cheaply (never did) so money should not be a consideration.There is a rate for the job so don't begrudge it if you choose to pay.

Don't see many plumbers,chippies,electricians etc. offering their services for free so why should agents (including estate agents:D) be expected to.

G

I think that our application may not be that straight forward, but i will consult with a few agents and get a feel for what they can do for us. I feel confident that there are some good agents out there, glad i started the thread.

Thanks again all.