Get a Mortgage in Principle Fast: Why It Matters and How We Can Help
- Liam Drummond
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read

If you're searching for a mortgage in principle (also called an Agreement in Principle or AIP), you're likely about to start viewing properties, or you’ve just found one you want to offer on. In today’s fast-moving market, having your mortgage in principle ready is more important than ever.
In this post, we’ll explain exactly what a mortgage in principle is, why it matters, how it helps your offer stand out, and how we at Drummonds Finance Group can help you get one quickly and easily.
What Is a Mortgage in Principle?
A mortgage in principle is a written estimate from a lender or broker showing how much you might be able to borrow based on a quick look at your income, outgoings, and credit profile. It’s not a guaranteed offer, but it’s often the first step toward securing a full mortgage.
An AIP is sometimes called:
Agreement in Principle
Decision in Principle (DIP)
Mortgage promise
Why You Need One in 2025
Right now, property demand remains high in many parts of the UK, and sellers are looking for serious buyers. When you view a property or make an offer, most estate agents will ask if you have a mortgage in principle in place. Without it, you might not be taken seriously or worse, you could miss out.
With a mortgage in principle, you can:
Show agents and sellers you are financially ready
Know what budget you are working with before you view
Avoid delays once you find the right home
How Long Does a Mortgage in Principle Take?
If you go directly to a bank, it might take a few days, and you may only see their own deals. At Drummonds Finance Group, we can usually issue your AIP on the same day, often within a few hours, once we’ve spoken to you and reviewed the basic documents.
We work with a wide panel of lenders across the market, so we can:
Find out how much you can borrow
Match you to suitable mortgage deals
Give you an AIP tailored to your real financial situation
What Documents Do You Need?
Getting a mortgage in principle is usually simple and does not require a full application. You’ll typically need to provide:
Your income details (payslips or accounts if self-employed)
Basic information about your outgoings
Proof of ID and address
Consent to a soft credit check
Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through everything step by step.
Does a Mortgage in Principle Affect Your Credit Score?
Most AIPs use a soft credit check, which does not impact your credit score. Some lenders may use a hard search, but we’ll always tell you before we proceed. That’s another reason to use a broker who understands the market.
How Long Does a Mortgage in Principle Last?
Most agreements last between 60 and 90 days. If your circumstances change or the AIP expires, we can quickly refresh it for you. You do not have to start over.
Why Use a Mortgage Broker Like Us?
At Drummonds Finance Group, we make it easy to get a mortgage in principle, and we do not charge for it. You’ll benefit from:
Fast turnaround times
Access to deals across the market
Clear advice tailored to your situation
Local expertise if you are buying in Oxford, Bicester, Banbury or further afield
We’ve helped hundreds of clients secure their first homes, move house, or remortgage smoothly, and we’re here to help you too.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're house hunting, do not wait until you've found a property. A mortgage in principle is one of the best tools to have in your back pocket.
Click below to get started:
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