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What Is a Mortgage in Principle UK? 2026 Guide

A mortgage in principle (MIP) is a conditional agreement from a lender showing how much they may lend you. Here is how to get one and why estate agents ask for it.

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Chandraketu Tripathi
Finance Editor, Kaeltripton
Published 14 Apr 2026
Last reviewed 3 May 2026
✓ Fact-checked
Kael Tripton — UK Finance Intelligence
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Part of our UK mortgage rates guide. See the main pillar for the full lender comparison, FRN-verified best buys by LTV band and worked-example payments: Best Mortgage Rates UK 2026.

A mortgage in principle (also called a decision in principle or agreement in principle) is a certificate from a lender showing how much they are likely to lend you, based on a soft credit check and basic income information.

Why using a mortgage broker matters

A whole-of-market mortgage broker has access to deals from 90+ lenders including exclusive products unavailable if you go direct. They handle the paperwork, negotiate on your behalf, and can place complex cases with specialist lenders. For most borrowers, a good broker saves time and often secures a better rate. Find verified mortgage brokers on the Kaeltripton Mortgage Broker Index.

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Find a verified IFA near you on the Kaeltripton Financial Index.

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Always verify with a qualified adviser

Mortgage decisions are significant long-term financial commitments. The right mortgage depends on your income, deposit, credit history, property type, and long-term plans. Always take advice from an FCA-regulated mortgage broker before committing to any product.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Tax figures are based on 2025/26 rates. Always verify with HMRC or a qualified adviser.


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Editorial Disclaimer

The content on Kaeltripton.com is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, tax, legal or regulatory advice. Kaeltripton.com is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and is not a financial adviser, mortgage broker, insurance intermediary or investment firm. Nothing on this site should be construed as a personal recommendation. Rates, figures and product details are indicative only, subject to change without notice, and should always be verified directly with the relevant provider, HMRC, the FCA register, the Bank of England, Ofgem or other appropriate authority before any financial decision is made. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. If you require regulated financial advice, please consult a qualified adviser authorised by the FCA.

CT
Chandraketu Tripathi
Finance Editor · Kaeltripton.com
Chandraketu (CK) Tripathi, founder and lead editor of Kael Tripton. 22 years in finance and marketing across 23 markets. Writes on UK personal finance, tax, mortgages, insurance, energy, and investing. Sources: HMRC, FCA, Ofgem, BoE, ONS.

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