I would agree it's important to use an agent, they just need to be good. I've done it before, living abroad and having a tenanted property managed here, and it worked out really well. Can't recommend the agents as they're small and local to my old area. Closer to home daisylets have a really good reputation, and they specialise in taking the hassle out of lettings arrangements, but - *disclaimer* - I have never actually used them and I know Claire who runs it. I'd say give her a call and have a chat or look for others who have used them for more accurate opinions :-)