Relocation agent costs

Has anyone used a relocation agent that costs less than one months rent? That's a huge hit to the wallet! Of course, we're not sure if we can afford NOT to use a relocation agent. It will be extremely stressful and inconvenient to stay in a short term let when we get there. We have 2 kids, 2 dogs and need to know where to deliver our shipment once it arrives. Also, we are planning on arriving around august 1 or so and then the next week we need to be in Sweden most of that week for a family wedding so we wouldn't be able to maximize the time directly after arrival in regards to house hunting. (plus don't know if we can find a short term let that allows pets).

*bump*

no one has had any experiences with relocation agents or similar services??

if not, how did you find your place if you were moving your entire family over (ie. not meeting up with an SO already there)?

We're trying to find the most cost effective and least stressful solution for our situation. I have a huge tension headache from dealing with this concept over the past 24 hours. It is soooo expensive... more so than I even thought when I posted this thread initially. Most websites say 1 months rent plus VAT but when I email them they send me quotes of flat fees, the smallest of which has been 1500 pounds plus VAT. Again, I don't know if I can afford NOT to use one of these services...

I need advice

We paid a lot less than that but it was in Scotland, I am sure down south would be more expensive.  Also, it depends what serivces they are giving you for that. Ours went to see 5 or 6 houses, emailed & called me back & forth with the details, liaised with the letting agents and gave us a quick tour of a city and some basic info about amenities.

Julia,
I am also looking into relocation specialists (ours would be for London).  If you find a decent-looking one, can you list it here?  Thanks!