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Mortgage Application Declined After Agreement In Principle? Here Is Why And How To Solve It.

  • Writer: Vincent Mak
    Vincent Mak
  • Feb 3
  • 2 min read

Three people sit at a table, reviewing documents. A man with glasses observes, while the others write. Shelves and art in the background.

Getting a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) or Agreement in Principle (AIP) approved is an exciting step, but it doesn’t always guarantee a successful mortgage application. Many homebuyers face the frustration of having their mortgage declined after AIP, leaving them confused about what went wrong and how to fix it.


Why Was Your Mortgage Declined After Agreement In Principle?

Several factors could cause your mortgage to be rejected even after receiving an Agreement In Principle. Here are some common reasons:


1. Changes in Financial Circumstances

Lenders reassess your finances when you submit a full mortgage application. If your financial situation changes—such as job loss, reduced income, or new debt—your application may be declined.


2. Issues with Your Credit Score

An MIP is often based on a soft credit check, whereas the full application involves a more detailed hard check. If undisclosed credit issues appear, lenders may reconsider their decision. To check your credit standing, visit our Credit Report Page.


3. Affordability Concerns

Lenders have strict affordability criteria. Even if your AIP was approved, your application might be declined if they find your income insufficient compared to your expenses. Use our Mortgage Affordability Calculator to estimate what you can afford.


4. Property-Related Issues

Some properties may be considered high-risk, leading to a mortgage rejection. Common property concerns include:

  • Structural defects

  • High-rise flats with cladding issues

  • Short leasehold properties

  • Ex-council properties with limited private ownership


5. Undisclosed Debts or Financial Commitments

If you have outstanding debts or recent large financial commitments that weren’t disclosed at the AIP stage, lenders may reject your mortgage application upon further review.


How to Solve a Mortgage Declined After AIP

If your mortgage was declined after AIP, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to improve your chances of approval.


1. Review the Lender’s Reasons for Declining

Request detailed feedback from the lender to understand why your mortgage was rejected. This will help you address any issues before reapplying.


2. Improve Your Credit Score

If credit issues caused the decline, work on improving your score by:

  • Making timely payments on existing debts

  • Reducing your credit utilization

  • Checking and correcting errors on your credit report


3. Adjust Your Mortgage Application

Consider applying for a lower mortgage amount or increasing your deposit to improve affordability. Use our Compare Fixed Rate Mortgage Calculator to explore your options.


4. Work with the Best Online Mortgage Broker

As the best online mortgage broker, we can help identify lenders with more flexible criteria suited to your circumstances. Our team at Possible Mortgages can guide you through the process and find a lender that best matches your needs.


5. Secure a New Mortgage in Principle

Once you’ve addressed any issues, obtain a new Mortgage in Principle before reapplying. This ensures that your finances align with lender expectations.


Final Thoughts

Having your mortgage declined after the Agreement in Principle can be frustrating, but understanding the reasons behind it can help you take the right steps toward approval. By improving your financial profile, seeking expert advice, and reassessing your mortgage options, you can successfully secure a mortgage.


Need help navigating the mortgage process? Contact us today for expert assistance.


Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. 

Comments


Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.  

 

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