What is a mortgage Agreement in Principle?

A mortgage Agreement in Principle is the first step to getting a mortgage. It will give you an idea of how much you could borrow before you apply for a mortgage. 

How does a mortgage Agreement in Principle work?

An Agreement in Principle (AIP) is also known as a Mortgage Promise or Decision in Principle. This is often seen as your first step to buying or remortgaging a home.

When you apply for an Agreement in Principle, the lender will ask about your finances and look at interest rates to work out what you can afford to repay. It’s not a guarantee, as you’ll need to go through the mortgage application process. But it could help you understand the amount you could borrow before you apply for a mortgage.

It’s obligation-free and only involves a soft credit check, which means there’s no impact on your credit score.

Important

Having a mortgage Agreement in Principle does not guarantee you’ll get a mortgage when you come to do a full application. The lender may change their decision or offer different terms. This can be due to changes in your circumstances or the lender’s criteria. 

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments

How do I get a mortgage Agreement in Principle?

When applying for an Agreement in Principle, you’ll need the following information:

  • The exact details of your income.
  • Notes on your outgoings and any existing credit agreements.
  • Your addresses for the last three years.

You can apply for an Agreement in principle online. It takes around 15 minutes to complete.

How long does a mortgage Agreement in Principle last?

A mortgage Agreement in Principle is usually valid for between 30 and 90 days. Sometimes, it’s possible to renew the terms of the agreement after the 90-day period, otherwise you’ll have to reapply.

How does an Agreement in Principle differ from a mortgage offer?

A mortgage offer is an official document from your lender to confirm they’ll give you a mortgage for a specific property.

This is only provided after you’ve completed a full mortgage application, where more detail is provided, and a full credit check has been carried out.

Will an Agreement in Principle affect my credit score?

An Agreement in Principle doesn’t affect your credit score. It only involves a soft credit check. When you apply for a mortgage, a full credit check is carried out. 

 

Start your mortgage journey

  • Simple to use, step-by-step guide
  • Find the right mortgage deal for you
  • Keep track of your progress all in one place

Already started your mortgage journey?

Sign in to continue

Get started

You might also like

Mortgage calculator

Our online mortgage calculator will give you an idea of how much you could borrow.

Use our mortgage calculators

Mortgages help

If you need help to find and apply for the right mortgage, our advisers can support you.

Get mortgage help

Start your mortgage journey

If you are looking to buy your first home, we can help get you started.

Get started

First Time Buyer help

Are you getting ready to take your first step on the property ladder?

We're here to offer guidance along each step of your journey, to make it as simple as possible.

First time buyer help hub

First Time Buyer help

Are you getting ready to take your first step on the property ladder?

We're here to offer guidance along each step of your journey, to make it as simple as possible.

First time buyer help hub