Agreement in Principle vs Mortgage Offer in Hove – What’s the Difference?

21 November 2025
Agreement in Principle vs Mortgage Offer in Hove - What’s the Difference

AIP vs mortgage offer explained for Hove buyers. What each stage checks, how long they last and how to move from AIP to full offer smoothly.

Estate agents love an Agreement in Principle (AIP). Lenders only issue a full mortgage offer after valuation and underwriting. Here’s what each stage does and how to avoid delays.

Agreement in Principle

  • Quick sense check with a soft or hard credit search.
  • Helps you view and negotiate in Hove’s competitive market.

Get started: Mortgage tips for first time buyers
See local market context: Navigating the Hove Housing Market

Full mortgage offer

  • After offer accepted: documents, valuation and full underwriting.
  • Needed before you can exchange contracts.

Choosing a survey: Mortgage Valuations and Surveys in Hove
Buying leasehold? Buying a Leasehold Flat in Hove

Questions or paperwork checks? Feel free to call us