Hi Guys
Welcome to PIO!!

I cant answer your questions re: visas other than to say that we are doing our own (spouse not skills) and there are plenty of people on here that are going solo. You will have plenty of replies I'm sure from the great people on this site

. Most agents will give you a free chat over the phone which might help.
Ness
P.S. We are also in Shropshire and heading for Perth so keep us posted on how you get on!! GOOD LUCK whichever way you go!