Estate agents vary in the amount of commission they charge. There may be many reasons why you might not want to go with the agent charging the cheapest commission. Not may people realise that the amount of commission is negotiable. For example, you might be able to negotiate an agent who normally charges 2.25% down to 1.75% or 2%. However, to avoid arguments later, it is important to have this in writing and inserted in your contract. Also, estate agents try and tie you to an exclusive contract for 12 weeks or 3 months. An estate agent who cant sell your house in 4 weeks is not worth their salt, so only agree to sign up for 4 weeks, after which you will be free to take your business elsewhere.