## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage Guide for 2025: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re considering investing in property, a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be a smart financing option. BM Solutions, part of Birmingham Midshires, is one of the UK’s most established lenders in the buy-to-let mortgage market. Known for competitive rates and a streamlined application process, BM Solutions caters to both seasoned landlords and first-time investors.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgages, including eligibility criteria, application steps, interest rates, required documents, and how brokers can help. Whether you’re a UK resident or an international investor, this guide is designed to help you make informed decisions in 2025 and beyond.
## Overview: BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires
BM Solutions is the buy-to-let lending arm of Birmingham Midshires, which itself is a trading name of Bank of Scotland, part of Lloyds Banking Group. With a strong heritage dating back to the 19th century, Birmingham Midshires has long been a trusted name in UK mortgage lending.
BM Solutions was established to specialise in intermediary-only buy-to-let lending, meaning you can only access their products through a qualified mortgage broker. This model ensures borrowers receive tailored advice and helps BM Solutions maintain a high standard of underwriting.
BM Solutions offers a range of buy-to-let mortgage products, including:
– Fixed-rate and tracker mortgages
– Purchase and remortgage options
– Portfolio landlord products (for landlords with four or more properties)
– Limited company buy-to-let mortgages (via intermediaries)
Their focus is on providing competitive interest rates, flexible lending criteria, and efficient service through technology-driven application systems. BM Solutions is particularly popular among professional landlords due to its consistency and reliability in the market.
As of 2025, BM Solutions continues to be a major player in the UK buy-to-let space, offering products that cater to a wide range of landlord profiles, including UK expats and portfolio investors.
## Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria and what’s required during the application.
### Who Can Apply?
BM Solutions caters to a broad range of applicants, but there are specific requirements:
– Applicants must be aged 21 to 75 (at the end of the mortgage term)
– Minimum income of £25,000 per applicant (not including rental income)
– Must already own a residential property (either mortgaged or owned outright)
– Maximum of three applicants per mortgage
– Available to UK residents only (BM Solutions does not currently lend to non-UK residents, including expats)
### Property Requirements
BM Solutions has clear guidelines on acceptable property types:
– Standard buy-to-let properties (houses and flats)
– New-build houses and flats (subject to LTV limits)
– HMOs (houses in multiple occupation) up to 5 bedrooms
– Flats above commercial premises (case-by-case basis)
Unacceptable properties include:
– Studio flats under 30 sq metres
– Properties with non-standard construction
– Holiday lets or Airbnb-style short-term lets
### Required Documents
To apply, you’ll need to provide:
– Proof of ID (passport or driving licence)
– Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
– Proof of income (latest SA302s or tax calculations)
– Existing mortgage statements (if applicable)
– Tenancy agreements (for remortgages)
– Property details and valuation
(See our full guide to mortgage eligibility criteria)
## Application Process Step-by-Step
Applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage involves several key steps. Since BM Solutions is an intermediary-only lender, you must apply through a mortgage broker.
### Step 1: Speak to a Broker
Your first step is to consult a qualified mortgage broker who has access to BM Solutions products. The broker will assess your financial situation, investment goals, and property details.
### Step 2: Get a Decision in Principle (DIP)
The broker will submit a Decision in Principle (DIP) to BM Solutions. This is a soft credit check and gives you an indication of how much you might be able to borrow.
### Step 3: Submit Full Application
Once you have a property in mind, your broker will submit the full mortgage application. You’ll need to provide all required documents at this stage.
### Step 4: Valuation and Underwriting
BM Solutions will arrange a property valuation and assess your application. This includes reviewing your income, credit history, and the property’s suitability.
### Step 5: Mortgage Offer
If everything checks out, BM Solutions will issue a formal mortgage offer. This typically takes 5–10 working days from full application.
### Step 6: Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal work, and once contracts are exchanged, the mortgage funds will be released.
(See our full guide to the mortgage application process)
## Rates & Fees
Understanding the cost of a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage is crucial for budgeting and return-on-investment calculations.
### Interest Rates
BM Solutions offers both fixed-rate and tracker mortgages. As of early 2025:
– 2-year fixed rates start from 4.89% (subject to LTV and applicant profile)
– 5-year fixed rates start from 5.19%
– Tracker rates follow the Bank of England base rate plus a margin
Rates vary depending on:
– Loan-to-value (LTV): Lower LTVs typically attract better rates
– Property type: HMOs and flats may have higher rates
– Applicant profile: Portfolio landlords may be assessed differently
### Fees
BM Solutions charges the following typical fees:
– Product fee: £995–£1,995 (can be added to the loan)
– Valuation fee: Free on some products, otherwise £150–£500+
– Legal fees: Usually paid by the borrower (some remortgage deals include free legals)
– Early repayment charges (ERCs): Apply during fixed/tracker periods
Always factor in the total cost of borrowing, not just the interest rate. Use an APRC (Annual Percentage Rate of Charge) to compare deals.
(See our full breakdown of mortgage fees and costs)
## Pros & Cons
### Pros
– Competitive interest rates for a wide range of borrowers
– Strong reputation and financial backing from Lloyds Banking Group
– Efficient application process via brokers
– Products tailored to portfolio landlords
– Free valuation and legal options on some remortgage deals
### Cons
– Only available through mortgage brokers (no direct applications)
– Not suitable for non-UK residents or expats
– Limited product range compared to some specialist lenders
– Strict criteria for certain property types
BM Solutions is ideal for UK-based landlords seeking a reliable, cost-effective lender, but may not suit everyone.
## Alternatives & Competitors
If BM Solutions doesn’t meet your needs, several other lenders offer competitive buy-to-let mortgage products:
### The Mortgage Works (TMW)
Part of Nationwide Building Society, TMW offers flexible criteria, including expat lending and HMOs. Known for strong customer service and a wide product range.
### Paragon Bank
Specialist in portfolio landlord lending and limited company mortgages. Offers bespoke underwriting and caters to complex cases.
### Aldermore
Another specialist lender, Aldermore is popular with self-employed applicants and those with non-standard properties.
### NatWest and Barclays
High-street lenders offering competitive rates for standard buy-to-let properties. May have stricter affordability checks.
Each lender has its own strengths, so it’s worth comparing options with a broker to find the best fit for your circumstances.
(See our comparison of the top UK buy-to-let mortgage lenders)
## FAQs
### 1. Can I apply for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes, BM Solutions does accept first-time landlords, provided you already own a residential property. You must also meet the minimum income requirement of £25,000. However, if you’re completely new to property ownership, you’ll need to look at other lenders who accept first-time buyers and first-time landlords.
### 2. Does BM Solutions offer limited company buy-to-let mortgages?
BM Solutions does not currently offer buy-to-let mortgages in the name of a limited company. All applications must be made in personal names. If you’re looking for limited company options, consider lenders like Paragon, Precise Mortgages, or Foundation Home Loans.
### 3. Can I remortgage my buy-to-let with BM Solutions?
Yes, BM Solutions offers remortgage products, often with incentives such as free valuations and legal work. You can remortgage to release equity, switch to a better rate, or consolidate portfolio lending.
### 4. What is the maximum loan-to-value (LTV) with BM Solutions?
BM Solutions typically offers up to 75% LTV on standard buy-to-let properties. For HMOs or new-build flats, the maximum LTV may be lower (e.g., 65%). Your broker can confirm the latest criteria.
### 5. How long does the BM Solutions mortgage application take?
From application to offer, the process usually takes 1–2 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and how quickly documents are provided. Completion can take 4–6 weeks in total.
### 6. Are BM Solutions mortgages available to self-employed applicants?
Yes, self-employed applicants are accepted, provided they can show at least two years of accounts or SA302s. The income must meet the £25,000 minimum threshold, excluding rental income.
### 7. Can I use rental income to qualify?
BM Solutions does not count rental income towards the £25,000 minimum personal income requirement. However, rental income is used to assess affordability for the specific mortgage.
### 8. What type of properties does BM Solutions accept?
BM Solutions accepts standard houses and flats, new builds, and small HMOs. They do not accept properties under 30 sq metres, holiday lets, or non-standard construction
