First-time Buyer Mortgages
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Agreement in Principle: A First-time Buyer’s Guide
Know what an initial lender decision tells you, what it does not confirm and how to prepare before you start house hunting.
Information checked 19 October 2026
What Is an Agreement in Principle?
An agreement in principle (AIP), also called a mortgage in principle or decision in principle, gives an initial indication of what a lender might lend. It can help you set a property-search budget.
An AIP is not a mortgage offer. The full application, supporting evidence and property still need assessment. Avoid treating the indicated amount as money already approved for a particular home.
Understand the Credit Check First
Lenders can use a soft or hard search at this stage. Ask which applies before proceeding. Repeated hard searches over a short period can affect your credit position.
If an online journey is unclear, pause and ask. An affordability estimate, an AIP and a full mortgage application are different stages; be clear about which one you are starting.
Prepare Figures You Can Explain
Use accurate figures that match your records. The lender’s requirements will depend on the application, but it helps to organise:
- Income: separate basic pay from overtime, bonus or commission. If self-employed, identify the accounts and tax records available.
- Outgoings: include credit commitments, childcare and regular living costs.
- Deposit: explain the amount, where it came from and any family contribution.
- Personal details: prepare your address history and identity information.
Keep sensitive documents out of an initial website enquiry. Jack can agree the evidence needed and a suitable way to share it after speaking with you.
Make Room for the Whole Purchase
Your deposit is only one part of the cash needed. Keep legal fees, surveys, moving costs and any applicable property tax in your buying plan. A borrowing figure also needs to sit alongside a monthly payment you feel comfortable maintaining.
The First Home Journey helps you place the mortgage decision within the wider purchase.
Before You Request an AIP
Tick the points you have covered. These ticks are a reading aid and are not submitted to Jack.
What Happens After the Decision?
When you find a property, the next step is a full mortgage application. The lender assesses the evidence and property; an AIP does not remove those checks.
If the decision is lower than expected or declined, review the reason before making further applications. An error in the information, a credit issue or a lender’s criteria may need attention. A different outcome is not guaranteed.
Your Questions, Answered
Do I need an AIP before I can view a home?
It is not generally a legal requirement, although an estate agent may ask for one. It can help demonstrate that you have considered your budget.
Link to this answerHow long does an AIP last?
The period depends on the lender; 30–90 days is common. Check the expiry date and tell your adviser if your circumstances change.
Link to this answerCan I be declined after getting an AIP?
Yes. The full application involves more detailed checks. The lender must also be satisfied with the property and the evidence supporting your application.
Link to this answerIs speaking to Jack the same as applying for an AIP?
No. Start with a conversation about your plans. Before any application is progressed, agree the next step, information required and applicable fees. See the fees and complaints information.
Link to this answerSources and Further Reading
Checked against the following official guidance on 19 October 2026. Requirements can change; confirm the current position before an application or withdrawal.
A Clear Next Step
Bring Your Questions to Jack.
You can get in touch while you are still saving, before viewings or after an offer is accepted. A short outline is enough to start.
Your Lifetime ISA
Understand another part of your first-home preparations.
Read the GuideHelp from Family
Prepare the questions and evidence for a gifted deposit.
Use the Gifted Deposit Checklist