When applying for a Decision in Principle (DiP), you’ll need to supply the following information:

• The exact details of your income
• Details of your regular outgoings
• Any existing loans and credit agreements
• Your addresses for the last 3 years

If you're applying for a joint application, then you’ll need the above details for all applicants. We would also need to check that none of the applicants:

• Have any CCJs
• Have been made bankrupt
• Have any outstanding payday loans

You can apply for a Decision in Principle (DiP) by calling 0800 220 568 to book an appointment with one of our mortgage advisors. At your appointment, our advisor will ask you questions about your income and spending habits to assess your affordability.

The time it takes to get a decision can vary, but our advisors will be there to guide you whenever you’re ready.

No, a Decision in Principle (DiP) is not a formal mortgage offer. The credit checks taken at the DiP stage are limited so mortgage lenders do not yet have a full picture of your finances.

A Mortgage Offer is an official confirmation that you’ve secured a mortgage for a particular property. You’ll only receive a Mortgage Offer once you have gone through the full mortgage application process, which involves a valuation of the property and a full search of your credit history.

We can only provide mortgages for certain types of properties. If the property you’re hoping to buy falls into any of the following categories, please let us know as we may require additional information and/or checks before issuing a decision:

• A property that’s to be sublet
• A listed building
• A commercial property
• A flat (except for leasehold flats)
• A property of non-standard construction

With your permission, we’ll run a soft credit check when you apply for a Decision in Principle (DiP) with us. A 'soft' search only records the credit check as an enquiry, so it won't leave a footprint on your credit history and therefore won't impact your credit rating.

A Decision in Principle (DiP) with Furness Building Society lasts for 90 days. If it should expire before you've found your dream home, you can apply for a new one.