When you start looking for a mortgage, one of the first steps is often securing an Agreement in Principle. Also known as a Decision in Principle or Mortgage in Principle, this document shows how much a lender is likely to let you borrow based on basic financial checks.

As a mortgage broker in Lincoln, we help clients secure their Agreement in Principle quickly so they can view properties with confidence, knowing roughly what they can afford.

What Is An Agreement In Principle?

An Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a mortgage lender confirming that, based on the information you’ve provided, they would be prepared to lend you a certain amount.

It’s not a full mortgage offer but a useful early step in the process. It helps you understand your borrowing potential, and estate agents often ask to see it before you make an offer on a property.

Your AIP is usually valid for between 30 and 90 days, and it can be renewed if your house search takes longer.

How A Soft Credit Search Works

When a lender or mortgage broker in Lincoln runs the checks needed for an Agreement in Principle, they’ll perform what’s known as a soft credit search.

A soft search reviews key details on your credit report, such as your payment history and existing debts, but it doesn’t leave a visible mark that other lenders can see. This means it won’t affect your credit score.

If you decide to proceed with a full mortgage application later, the lender will then carry out a hard credit check. A hard search is recorded on your credit file and can have a small, temporary impact on your score, especially if several are done within a short period.

Why Lenders Use Credit Searches

Credit searches give lenders an overview of how you’ve managed money in the past. They help confirm whether you have a good track record of repaying credit agreements and whether your finances are stable enough for a mortgage.

Soft searches provide enough detail for a lender to make an initial decision without affecting your credit rating, which is why they’re preferred for Agreements in Principle.

How A Mortgage Broker in Lincoln Can Help

Working with a mortgage broker in Lincoln means you can secure an Agreement in Principle without unnecessary credit checks or confusion. We work with multiple lenders who use soft searches, allowing you to explore your options without impacting your credit score.

Once you’re ready to proceed, we’ll guide you through the full application process, ensuring your documents are in order and that your credit profile supports the mortgage deal you’re aiming for.

Whether you’re a first time buyer, a home mover, or looking to remortgage, an Agreement in Principle is an important first step, and getting it right helps you start your property journey with confidence.

Date Last Edited: 06/10/2025