The general feeling is that whatever the agents can do you can do for yourself and save money. The figure you quoted seems extremely low so I'd be very wary that there wasn't some hidden catch that leads you to spending a lot more. Usually they charge into the thousands for their services.
Some people have used agents and been satisfied with the job they did but they are in the minority. You have to pick very carefully who you use. A lot of people have felt thoroughly ripped off after handing over a huge fee but getting nothing in return. You still have to gather together all the information and documents you will need (which is the hard part) and give them to the agent who just checks them over and sends them off (the easy bit).
And, before I forget,
to the forum.