Housesimple or Local Agent, WWYD?

[ShouldIStay0rShouldIGo]

Some advice please wise Mumsnetters... We’re selling our home to relocate and have had 3 valuations with estate agents; 2 local agents and Housesimple. One local agent we didn’t get a feel for but the other seems ok. Both local agents have valued at OIEO £150K and the online agent, Housesimple valued at £155-165K, recommending we go on at £159,950. This was our first valuation and despite trying my best not to, it got my hopes up as to how much equity we might then be able to accrue for a deposit once we move (initially will be staying with family). We really liked the agent and he has very recently sold another property on our road for a brilliant price (not a lot less than 150K) which is in need of modernising. Our own house is not perfect but is ready to move into, neutral decor and modern kitchen and bathroom. Obviously the online agent is also cheaper fees, saving us about £1200. Would you risk going with the online agent with potentially not as great quality photos etc. or stick with the high street agent who have a good rep? Is it a case of you get what you pay for? We have never sold before so feel like we’re going round in circles to decide. if you made it this far!

I would go with your local agent who will have better local knowledge and a database of buyers he can send your house out to immediately you go on the market. Getting an offer on your housebis just the first step and if any complications arise through the selling process a proper agent is better placed to chase solicitors and other parts of the chain for you - you should get a better service. However you can still negotiate their fee to get as low as possible.

Want to Bump this as I'm in the same boat - what did you do in the end???

Anyone got any new advice?

I have read myriads of reviews about HouseSimple and have decided that once I have taken the fake ones into account the following is true:

They take photos and list your house on RightMove, Zoopla etc... Fairly quickly.
They then do nothing and you manage viewings etc...
Buyers have reported issues making offers to sellers as some have found their financial screening process difficult.
Some sellers have reported not receiving offers from buyers in a timely manner.
They do not chase chains and sales progressions or are less likely too if you do not use their recommended conveyancers / solicitors which are usually overpriced.
Its free - they get their commission by selling, sometimes hard, their services such as legal ones.

The following is also true of my local estate agents based on their reviews:

They take photos and list your house on RightMove, Zoopla etc... Fairly quickly.
They arrange and conduct viewings but often have limited off peak availability.
I know my house better than they do.
They have been criticised for stalling viewings until they can host an open day with enough interest - often a few weeks after the property has gone live - after which time some interested buyers may have found another place.

Pros and cons with both...