Are a mortgage decision in principle and an agreement in principle the same thing?
Lender jargon decoded for buyers so they know what is soft-checked, what expires, and what is still not a mortgage offer.
Published: 18 Apr 2026 · Updated: 18 Apr 2026 · 8 min read
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Brands differ, pattern repeats
Most lenders offer a preliminary affordability screen producing a ceiling figure subject to verification. Names such as Agreement in Principle or Decision in Principle describe similar steps.
Buyer habits
Check expiry dates before offers.
Declare material facts that change affordability.
Do not confuse a DIP with a formal Mortgage Offer after valuation.
Keep lender emails in a dated folder for your Purchase Task list.
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