What Is a Mortgage in Principle?

A mortgage in principle (DIP/AIP) is a conditional statement from a lender indicating how much they'd be willing to lend you based on initial checks. It's not a guarantee but demonstrates to sellers and estate agents that you're a credible, fundable buyer. You can get one online in minutes through lenders or brokers. Most are valid for 60-90 days. Getting a DIP before house hunting is recommended as agents often request it before viewings.

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What is a mortgage in principle?

A mortgage in principle (also called decision in principle, agreement in principle, or AIP) is a statement from a lender saying they would 'in principle' lend you a certain amount based on initial checks. It's not a guarantee but shows sellers and agents you're a serious, fundable buyer.

How do I get a mortgage in principle online?

You can get a mortgage in principle online through lender websites or via a broker. You'll provide basic details: income, deposit, outgoings, and consent to a credit check. Many lenders now offer 'soft' credit checks that don't affect your credit score. Results typically come within minutes to 24 hours.

Does a mortgage in principle affect my credit score?

It depends on the type of check. A 'soft' credit check (used by many lenders for DIPs) doesn't appear on your credit file and doesn't affect your score. A 'hard' search does appear and may slightly impact your score. Ask whether the DIP uses a soft or hard check before applying.

How long does a mortgage in principle last?

Most mortgage in principle certificates are valid for 60-90 days. After that, you'll need to get a new one as your circumstances or the lender's criteria may have changed. Some lenders offer validity up to 6 months.

Is a mortgage in principle a guarantee?

No. A DIP is an indication, not a guarantee. The full mortgage application involves more detailed checks including: full credit assessment, affordability verification, property valuation, and identity checks. Some applications are declined after DIP. However, most DIPs do convert to full offers.

Do I need a mortgage in principle before viewing houses?

It's strongly recommended. Estate agents often ask for proof of funding before arranging viewings. Having a DIP shows you're serious and can afford properties in your price range. It also helps you know your budget before you start looking.

Quick Answer

How Do I Get a Mortgage in Principle?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

Apply online through a lender or broker with basic income and deposit details. Most use soft credit checks and provide results in minutes. Valid for 60-90 days.

A mortgage in principle (also called decision in principle or agreement in principle) is a quick, initial assessment of how much a lender might offer you. To get one, you'll provide: your income details, deposit amount, basic outgoings, and consent to a credit check. Many lenders now use 'soft' searches that don't impact your credit score. You can apply direct with lenders or through a broker - brokers can often get DIPs from multiple lenders with one application. Results typically come within minutes for online applications. Having a DIP before house hunting shows sellers you're a serious buyer and helps you focus on properties within your budget.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. A DIP is not a guarantee of a mortgage offer.

Key Points

1Also called decision in principle (DIP) or AIP
2Shows how much a lender might offer you
3Not a guarantee - full application checked more thoroughly
4Many now use soft credit checks (no score impact)
5Valid for 60-90 days typically
6Estate agents often request before viewings

Eligibility Criteria

Basic income and employment information
Deposit amount available
Consent to credit check
UK address history
No specific property needed at this stage

Typical Timeframe

Online mortgage in principle applications take 5-15 minutes. Results are often instant or within 24 hours. Through a broker, you may get DIPs from multiple lenders quickly. Remember to renew before expiry (typically 60-90 days) if you haven't found a property yet.

Next Steps

1Gather your income and deposit details
2Check if lender uses soft or hard credit check
3Apply online through lender or broker
4Use the DIP to set your property budget
5Show estate agents your DIP when viewing

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How Do I Get a Mortgage in Principle?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

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