Approval in Principle

Getting started with your Approval in Principle

With an Approval in Principle (also known as a Decision in Principle, Agreement in Principle or Mortgage Promise), you can find out if we may be able to lend to you. It’s free and there’s no obligation to take out a mortgage with us afterwards.

By taking into account your income and outgoings, it gives you a good idea of the type of property you may be able to afford. It’s also something estate agents sometimes ask for to show you’re serious about buying.

What do you need to apply for an Approval in Principle?

Your salary and employment details

Any existing mortgage details

Details of your current financial commitments

Want to make a full mortgage application too? Here’s a list of the documents (PDF) you’ll need when you get to that stage. For us to properly check whether you can afford the mortgage, please take extra care to make sure all the details you provide are accurate and complete.

Choosing how to apply

Get advice

If you want some help with your Approval in Principle, and with choosing the right mortgage, we recommend speaking to one of our mortgage consultants. They'll recommend a suitable mortgage from our range based on your needs and circumstances - and all for free. The first step is to call now to arrange an appointment.

By choosing an advised service, you'll be protected by the mortgage advice rules of the Financial Conduct Authority.

However the rules are slightly different for Buy to Let mortgages for business purposes. In these cases, we won’t be able to provide you with advice and you won’t benefit from the Financial Conduct Authority protections. But that doesn’t mean you can’t call us - we’d be happy to help if you want some more information.

Call us for advice

Call us on 03450 50 22 51.
Our lines are open 8am-8pm Monday-Friday and 9am-5pm on Saturday.

Apply online without advice

Getting an Approval in Principle online is free and easy and only takes about 10 minutes.

Implications of applying online

If you apply for a mortgage online you won’t receive advice from Leeds Building Society. You’ll need to make your own choice about which mortgage is suitable for you and we won’t assess the suitability of that mortgage to your needs and circumstances. You won’t benefit from the Financial Conduct Authority protections offered by an advised service. This is called an execution only transaction. If you’d like to receive advice call us on 03450 505062.

Apply online today