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Mortgage in Principle (MIP): What It Is and Why It’s Important

  • Writer: Vincent Mak
    Vincent Mak
  • Mar 17
  • 2 min read

Two women sitting on a bed with two dogs in a cozy room, smiling and relaxed. A robe hangs on the door; light streams through a window.

If you’re looking to buy a home, obtaining a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) is a crucial step. It provides an estimate of how much a lender is willing to offer based on an initial assessment of your finances. While not a guarantee, having an MIP can strengthen your position as a serious buyer.


What Is a Mortgage in Principle?

A Mortgage in Principle is a statement from a lender indicating how much you could potentially borrow. It is based on key financial details, including your income, expenses, and credit history. Although not a formal mortgage offer, an MIP can be valuable when house hunting, giving sellers confidence in your ability to secure financing.


Why Is a Mortgage in Principle Important?

Having an MIP offers several advantages:

  • Boosts Credibility – Sellers and estate agents take you more seriously, as it shows you are financially prepared.

  • Clarifies Affordability – It helps you understand how much you can borrow and refine your property search.

  • Speeds Up Mortgage Applications – With an MIP in place, your full mortgage application process can be quicker and smoother.


If you’re ready to obtain a Mortgage in Principle, visit our MIP page to get started today.


How to Get a Mortgage in Principle

The process of getting an MIP is straightforward and typically involves:

  1. Providing Financial Information – Lenders will assess your income, debts, and expenses.

  2. Credit Check – Some lenders conduct a soft credit check that doesn’t affect your credit score.

  3. Receiving a Decision – If approved, you’ll get an MIP certificate valid for a set period (usually 60-90 days).


To check your financial standing before applying, you can review your credit history using our credit report page.


Does a Mortgage in Principle Guarantee a Mortgage Offer?

No, an MIP is not a formal mortgage offer. The lender will still conduct a thorough review when you submit a full mortgage application. Factors such as property valuation and detailed affordability assessments will determine final approval.


For an in-depth look at what you can afford, try our Mortgage Affordability

Calculator and explore your financial options.


Final Thoughts

A Mortgage in Principle is an essential step in your home-buying journey. It provides clarity, credibility, and a competitive edge in a fast-moving property market. Ready to get started? Apply for an MIP today and take the next step towards homeownership!

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

Commentaires


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

 

Typically we charge a fee of £500 for arranging a mortgage, however the actual fee will depend on your circumstances and if more work is required then we could charge more than this but we will make you aware at the start of the process.

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: FRAUD WARNING 

  

We will never send you an email asking you to transfer money or requesting your bank details. We will never ask you to transfer deposit money to your solicitor. If you receive an email claiming to be from us or any professional such as a bank or solicitor, it is not genuine, so please ignore it! 

 

However, please let us know immediately if you receive an email like this claiming to be from us. 

 

Possible Mortgages is a trading style of Possible Financial Services, which is an Appointed Representative of Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA number 1023518.

 

Registered Office: Possible Financial Services, 60 Corelli Road, London, England, SE3 8ER. Registered Company Number: 16072750. Registered in England. 

© Possible Mortgages 2025

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