Being in good terms with your agents is important : they will do more to sell your property if they likes and respects you.

Commissions:

You don't want the estate agent to put less efforts in selling your property, so don't argue for 1% commission as it makes little difference to your total profit in the end.

Remember that in other countries such as in France, commission usually amount for 10% to 15%!

The contract:

At the beggining, the agent will send you the potential buyers from his database. Then, he will send you only new custumers.

Try to negotiate a contract which stipulate that you are bound with him for the minimum time : usually 4 weeks. Extend the contract if you're happy with the services.

Marketing the important details:

Make sure that the pictures of your property are excellent. A bad picture can drive away potential buyers. Check also if the agent's description is correct: the surface measurement, sought after extras, proximity of local amenities and transport links.

Communicating with your agent:

Speak with your agent on a weekly basis. Ask about any feedback and if reccurant, try to find a way to fix the problem.

Answer your agent's question as soon as possible and in a professional way.

Keeping the building paperwork:

Try to keep all the surveys, any work that you did, planning permissions and regulations together.

Send a full copy to your agent and sollicitor.