## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage Guide: 2025 Edition
If you’re considering investing in rental property, a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be a smart financing option. As part of Birmingham Midshires, BM Solutions is one of the UK’s most established names in the buy-to-let lending market. Known for its competitive interest rates, streamlined application process, and broker-only access, BM Solutions caters to both new and experienced landlords.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about securing a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage in 2025. Whether you’re a UK resident or an international investor, we’ll cover eligibility, required documents, the application process, current interest rates, and how BM Solutions compares to other lenders.
With lending criteria evolving and the buy-to-let market facing regulatory changes, staying informed is essential. This guide is designed to help you make confident, well-informed decisions.
## Overview: BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires
BM Solutions is the buy-to-let lending arm of Birmingham Midshires, which itself is a division of Lloyds Banking Group. While Birmingham Midshires no longer offers residential mortgages to new customers, BM Solutions remains active and competitive in the buy-to-let space.
### History and Background
Birmingham Midshires has a long-standing reputation in the UK mortgage market, dating back to the 1980s. BM Solutions was established to focus exclusively on intermediary-based buy-to-let lending. This means that all BM Solutions products are available only through authorised mortgage brokers, not directly to consumers.
### Services Offered
BM Solutions specialises in:
– Buy-to-let mortgages for individual landlords
– Portfolio landlord mortgages (for those with four or more properties)
– Limited company buy-to-let mortgages (via selected brokers)
– Let-to-buy options (where you let out your current home to buy a new one)
The lender is known for its consistent underwriting criteria, fast processing times, and online broker portal, which streamlines the application process.
BM Solutions does not offer residential mortgages, remortgages for owner-occupiers, or commercial property loans.
## Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. While BM Solutions is considered an accessible lender, it maintains strict underwriting standards to ensure responsible lending.
### Who Can Apply?
BM Solutions typically accepts applications from:
– UK residents aged 21 to 75 (the mortgage must complete before age 80)
– First-time landlords (subject to stricter criteria)
– Experienced landlords
– Portfolio landlords (those with four or more mortgaged properties)
– Limited companies (via selected brokers)
International or expat borrowers are generally not accepted unless they meet specific UK residency and income criteria. (See our guide to expat buy-to-let mortgages for more options.)
### Income Requirements
BM Solutions does not usually require a minimum personal income for standard buy-to-let applications. However:
– Rental income must meet the lender’s stress test (typically 125%–145% of the mortgage payment at a notional interest rate)
– For limited company applications, the company must meet affordability criteria
### Property Criteria
Acceptable property types include:
– Standard residential houses and flats
– Leasehold properties with at least 85 years remaining
– New-build flats (subject to maximum LTV limits)
– HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) for experienced landlords only
Unacceptable properties include:
– Holiday lets
– Commercial or semi-commercial properties
– Properties with significant structural issues or non-standard construction
### Required Documents
Applicants will typically need to provide:
– Proof of ID (passport or driving licence)
– Proof of address (utility bills, bank statements)
– Proof of rental income (AST agreements or letting agent letters)
– Portfolio spreadsheet (for portfolio landlords)
– Company accounts and incorporation documents (for limited companies)
(For a full list, see our guide to mortgage application documents.)
## Application Process Step-by-Step
BM Solutions operates exclusively through registered mortgage brokers. Here’s how the application process works in 2025:
### Step 1: Speak to a Mortgage Broker
Because BM Solutions is a broker-only lender, your first step is to consult a qualified mortgage adviser. They will assess your circumstances, recommend suitable products, and submit your application on your behalf.
### Step 2: Decision in Principle (DIP)
Your broker will complete a Decision in Principle (DIP) online using BM Solutions’ broker portal. This soft credit check assesses your eligibility without affecting your credit score.
### Step 3: Full Mortgage Application
If the DIP is successful, your broker will submit a full mortgage application, including supporting documents. This stage includes:
– Property valuation ordered by BM Solutions
– Underwriting review by BM Solutions’ team
– Additional document requests if needed
### Step 4: Mortgage Offer
Once all checks are complete and the valuation is satisfactory, BM Solutions will issue a formal mortgage offer. This is typically valid for 6 months.
### Step 5: Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal work, including property searches and fund transfers. Once completed, your mortgage begins, and you can let the property.
### Timeline
– DIP: Same day
– Full application to offer: 5–10 working days (subject to valuation and document turnaround)
– Completion: 4–8 weeks depending on legal process
(Tip: Ensure all documents are accurate and up to date to avoid delays.)
## Rates & Fees
Understanding the cost of a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage is crucial for budgeting and profitability. Rates and fees can vary depending on your deposit size, property type, and personal circumstances.
### Interest Rates
As of early 2025, BM Solutions offers:
– Fixed rates from 4.75% (2-year and 5-year options)
– Tracker rates from 4.50% above Bank of England base rate
– Limited company rates slightly higher (typically 0.25%–0.50%)
Rates are subject to change and depend on loan-to-value (LTV) ratios. Lower LTV (e.g., 60%) usually attracts better rates.
### Product Fees
Most BM Solutions mortgages include:
– Product fee: £995–£1,995 (can be added to the loan)
– Valuation fee: Free on many products
– Early repayment charges (ERC): Apply during fixed/tracker periods
### Other Costs
– Legal fees: Paid to your solicitor
– Broker fee: Charged by your mortgage adviser (varies)
– Stamp Duty: Payable on buy-to-let properties above £40,000 (see HMRC guidance)
Always factor in the total cost of borrowing, not just the interest rate. (See our full guide to buy-to-let mortgage costs.)
## Pros & Cons
### Advantages of BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgages
– Competitive interest rates
– Fast processing and online tracking
– Accepts first-time and portfolio landlords
– Strong reputation within the broker community
– Free valuations on many products
### Disadvantages
– Broker-only access (no direct applications)
– Limited company lending only via selected brokers
– No support for holiday lets or expat borrowers
– Strict property criteria
BM Solutions is best suited for landlords seeking a reliable, mainstream lender with competitive pricing and efficient service.
## Alternatives & Competitors
While BM Solutions is a leading buy-to-let lender, it’s worth comparing with other providers to find the best fit for your needs.
### Top Competitors in 2025
– **The Mortgage Works (TMW)**: Offers flexible criteria and supports limited companies and HMOs.
– **Paragon Bank**: Specialist in portfolio and complex buy-to-let cases.
– **Precise Mortgages**: Good for adverse credit and limited company lending.
– **NatWest**: Offers buy-to-let products for personal and limited company borrowers.
– **Barclays**: Competitive rates and strong service for standard buy-to-let.
Each lender has different strengths. For example, TMW is ideal for first-time landlords, while Paragon suits large portfolios. (See our comparison of the best buy-to-let lenders in 2025.)
## FAQs
### 1. Can I get a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes, BM Solutions accepts first-time landlords, although you may face stricter criteria. For example, you may need a higher deposit (typically 25% or more), and the property must meet standard criteria. Your personal income and credit history will also be scrutinised more closely.
### 2. Does BM Solutions offer mortgages to limited companies?
Yes, but only through selected brokers. Limited company buy-to-let mortgages are available for SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles) with appropriate SIC codes. Rates are slightly higher, and additional documentation such as company accounts and director guarantees is required.
### 3. What is the minimum deposit for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage?
The minimum deposit is typically 25% (75% LTV), although lower LTVs (e.g., 60%) will secure better interest rates. For new-build flats or HMOs, a higher deposit may be required.
### 4. How long does it take to get a BM Solutions mortgage offer?
Most offers are issued within 5–10 working days of a complete application. Delays can occur if documents are missing or if the property valuation raises concerns.
### 5. Can I remortgage to BM Solutions?
Yes, BM Solutions offers buy-to-let remortgages with or without capital raising. You can switch from another lender to BM Solutions to secure better rates or release equity.
### 6. Are there early repayment charges?
Yes, most BM Solutions fixed and tracker products include early repayment charges (ERCs) during the initial term. These typically range from 1%–5% of the loan amount, depending on how early you repay.
### 7. Does BM Solutions lend on HMOs?
Yes, but only for experienced landlords. You must already own at least one buy-to
