Quick Answer

How Do I Get a Fast Mortgage Decision?

Reviewed by Jay SabineCeMAP Qualified29 years experience

Have all documents ready, use a broker, choose fast-processing lenders, and respond immediately to any queries. DIPs are instant; full offers can be 24 hours to 4 weeks.

Getting a fast mortgage decision depends on preparation and choosing the right lender. Decision in principle (DIP) can be instant through online applications. For full mortgage offers, some lenders can process in 24-72 hours for ideal cases, while complex applications take 4-6 weeks. The key factors are: having all documentation ready before applying, choosing a lender with fast current processing times (this varies), having straightforward circumstances (employed, good credit, standard property), responding immediately to any queries, and using a broker who can push the application through efficiently.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Fast decisions require complete, accurate information.

Key Points

  • 1DIP can be instant, full offers vary widely
  • 2Straightforward cases processed fastest
  • 3Documents ready = faster processing
  • 4Broker can identify fastest current lenders
  • 5Complex cases (self-employed, non-standard) take longer
  • 6Same day often means DIP, not completion

Eligibility Criteria

  • All documents prepared and accurate
  • Clean credit history with no surprises
  • Employed with simple income (PAYE ideal)
  • Standard property type (not non-standard construction)
  • Realistic borrowing relative to income
  • Deposit funds ready and traceable

Typical Timeframe

DIP: instant to 24 hours. Full mortgage offer: 24 hours (best case) to 4-6 weeks (complex cases). Exchange to completion: typically 2-4 weeks after offer. Overall purchase process: 8-12 weeks is common, but can be faster with motivated parties.

Next Steps

  1. 1Gather all required documents now
  2. 2Check your credit report for errors
  3. 3Get a DIP to identify any issues
  4. 4Speak to a broker about fastest lenders
  5. 5Be ready to respond to queries same-day

Ready to discuss your options?

FCA regulated advice tailored to your situation

Related Questions

For more detailed information about this topic, visit our comprehensive guide:

Mortgage Hub
Jay Sabine
CeMAP Qualified
29 Years Experience

Content reviewed: 13 January 2026

Mortgage Timeline Explained

Decision in Principle (DIP)

Instant to 24 hours - shows what you could borrow

Instant

Full Application Submitted

With property details and all documentation

Day 1

Underwriting & Valuation

Lender assesses your application and values property

1-14 days

Mortgage Offer Issued

Formal offer confirming terms and conditions

1-4 weeks

How to Speed Up Your Mortgage

Documents to Have Ready
  • 3 months' payslips (employed)
  • 3 months' bank statements
  • P60 or tax returns
  • Photo ID (passport/driving licence)
  • Proof of address
  • Proof of deposit source
  • Employment contract (if new job)
Actions That Speed Things Up
  • Use a broker who can push lenders
  • Check credit report for errors first
  • Respond to queries same-day
  • Choose a fast-processing lender
  • Instruct solicitors early
  • Avoid applying for other credit
  • Keep bank statements clean

What Slows Down Applications

Applicant Issues

  • Missing or incorrect documents
  • Slow responses to lender queries
  • Complex income (self-employed, multiple jobs)
  • Credit issues requiring explanation

Property/Chain Issues

  • Non-standard construction needing specialist survey
  • Valuation issues (down-valued, queries)
  • Legal issues (lease length, rights of way)
  • Long property chains with delays

People Also Ask

What Our Clients Say

Rated 5.0/5 by 60+ clients in the last 90 days

Loading reviews...
Call UsWhatsAppEnquire