Start your agreement in principle
Know where you stand before you make an offer
An agreement in principle (AIP) can help you understand what you could borrow before making an offer. Complete our simple form and an adviser will contact you to discuss your circumstances and guide your next steps.
No impact on
your credit score
Muttuo’s AIP process uses a soft credit check, so your credit score is not affected.
Show estate agents you’re prepared
An AIP helps show you’ve considered how to fund your purchase before making an offer.
No commitment
to a mortgage
Getting an AIP does not commit you to taking a mortgage with that lender.
What is an agreement in principle?
A mortgage agreement in principle gives an initial indication of how much a lender may lend, based on your information and its assessment. Lenders may also call it a mortgage in principle or decision in principle.
You can request one before finding a property to help set your search budget. Unlike a mortgage calculator, an AIP involves a lender’s assessment, not just an estimate from the figures you enter.
It is not a mortgage offer or a guarantee of approval.
How to get a mortgage in principle
Complete our simple form, then speak with an adviser about your borrowing plans.
Complete our simple form with details about your income, deposit and borrowing plans. This starts your AIP enquiry, rather than a full mortgage application.
A Muttuo adviser will contact you to discuss your circumstances, review your borrowing needs and answer your questions.
Your adviser will guide you through requesting an AIP from a suitable lender and explain the outcome. The lender makes the lending decision.
What you’ll need to get started
Have these details ready for your adviser:
- Personal details and address history.
- Employment and income, including any additional earnings.
- Deposit and the amount you hope to borrow.
- Regular spending and financial commitments, including debts and existing mortgages.
- The same information for anyone applying jointly.
Your adviser will explain what supporting documents are needed and when to provide them.
Help with more complex circumstances
If you’re self-employed, receive variable income or have questions about your credit history, speak to us. We’ll review your circumstances and explain the lender requirements relevant to you.
What happens after your AIP?
Once you’ve found a property and had an offer accepted, we can help you prepare a full mortgage application.
The lender will check your documents, assess affordability and credit history, and arrange a property valuation before deciding whether to make an offer.
Tell your adviser if your income, deposit or intended borrowing changes, as your AIP may need reassessment.
Our first-time buyer mortgage guide explains the wider buying process.
How Muttuo can help
Start your agreement in principle online
Complete the form and an adviser will contact you.
Frequently asked questions
Does a mortgage in principle affect my credit score?
Muttuo’s AIP process uses a soft credit check, which does not affect your credit score. A full mortgage application involves a separate credit assessment.
How long does a mortgage in principle last?
An AIP often lasts 60–90 days, although some lenders use shorter periods. Check the expiry date on yours. If it expires, we can help you request a new one.
How long does it take to get an AIP?
After you submit the form, an adviser will contact you to discuss your AIP. The time needed depends on the information required and the lender’s assessment.
What if my AIP is declined?
Speak to your adviser before applying elsewhere. We can review the reason and your circumstances, then explain whether another lender or changes to your plans may be worth considering.