## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage Guide: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
If you’re considering investing in property, a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be a powerful tool to help you achieve your financial goals. As one of the UK’s most established lenders in the buy-to-let space, BM Solutions—part of Birmingham Midshires—offers a wide range of products tailored to landlords. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or managing a growing portfolio, understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and interest rates is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgages in 2025. From who qualifies and how to apply, to what documents you’ll need and how their rates compare to competitors, this is your one-stop resource. We’ll also cover common FAQs and provide practical insights for both UK and international borrowers.
## Overview: BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires
BM Solutions is the buy-to-let lending arm of Birmingham Midshires, a division of Lloyds Banking Group. While Birmingham Midshires no longer offers residential mortgages directly to new customers, BM Solutions remains a key player in the buy-to-let sector, working exclusively through mortgage brokers.
### A Trusted Name in Buy-to-Let Lending
Founded in the 1980s, Birmingham Midshires built a strong reputation for offering competitive mortgage products. In the early 2000s, BM Solutions was launched to focus solely on buy-to-let lending. Today, it is one of the UK’s leading lenders in this niche, known for its streamlined application process, competitive rates, and support for portfolio landlords.
BM Solutions does not deal directly with borrowers. Instead, all applications must be submitted via an authorised mortgage broker. This ensures professional advice is given and that applicants are matched with suitable products.
### Services Offered
BM Solutions specialises in:
– Buy-to-let mortgages for individual and limited company landlords
– Portfolio landlord solutions (for those with four or more properties)
– Remortgages and capital raising
– Interest-only and repayment options
– Fixed and tracker rate products
Their lending criteria and product range are regularly updated to reflect market conditions, making them a relevant choice for landlords in 2025.
## Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure that borrowers are financially capable and that the property is a viable investment.
### Who Can Apply?
BM Solutions accepts applications from:
– UK residents aged 21 to 80 (at the end of the mortgage term)
– First-time landlords and experienced investors
– Individual applicants or limited companies
– Portfolio landlords (those with four or more mortgaged properties)
International or non-UK residents are generally not eligible, as BM Solutions focuses on UK-based borrowers.
### Income and Affordability
BM Solutions has a minimum income requirement of £25,000 per annum for at least one applicant. This must be from a verifiable source such as employment, self-employment, or pension income.
Affordability is assessed using a rental income stress test. Typically, the expected rental income must cover 125% to 145% of the mortgage interest, depending on the tax status and borrower type.
### Property Criteria
Eligible properties include:
– Standard residential properties (houses and flats)
– New builds (with some restrictions)
– HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) for experienced landlords
– Properties in England, Wales, and mainland Scotland
BM Solutions does not lend on:
– Bedsits or studio flats under 30m²
– Holiday lets or Airbnb-style rentals
– Properties with commercial use
### Required Documents
Applicants will typically need to provide:
– Proof of income (e.g., payslips, SA302s, pension statements)
– Proof of ID and address
– Mortgage statements (for remortgages)
– Tenancy agreements (for existing properties)
– Portfolio details (for portfolio landlords)
(See our full guide on mortgage eligibility criteria for more details.)
## Application Process Step-by-Step
Applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage involves several stages, all handled via a mortgage broker. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:
### 1. Speak to a Mortgage Broker
Since BM Solutions does not deal directly with the public, your first step is to consult a qualified mortgage broker. They’ll assess your needs, check your eligibility, and recommend suitable BM Solutions products.
### 2. Agreement in Principle (AIP)
Your broker will submit an AIP request to BM Solutions. This is a soft credit check and gives an indication of whether you’re likely to be approved. It also provides a borrowing estimate.
### 3. Submit Full Application
If the AIP is successful, your broker will submit a full mortgage application. This includes uploading all required documents and property details.
### 4. Valuation and Underwriting
BM Solutions will instruct a property valuation to ensure the property meets their criteria and is worth the purchase price. Simultaneously, underwriters will assess your application and documents.
### 5. Mortgage Offer
If everything checks out, BM Solutions will issue a formal mortgage offer. This is usually valid for 3–6 months.
### 6. Legal Work and Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal side, including searches and contracts. Once all parties are ready, the mortgage completes and funds are released.
### Timeline
The full process typically takes 4–6 weeks, though it can be faster with a straightforward case and responsive solicitors.
## Rates & Fees
Understanding the costs involved in a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage is essential for budgeting and profitability.
### Interest Rates
BM Solutions offers both fixed and tracker rate mortgages. As of early 2025:
– 2-year fixed rates start from around 4.75%
– 5-year fixed rates start from 4.95%
– Tracker rates follow the Bank of England base rate plus a margin (e.g., base + 2.5%)
Rates vary depending on:
– Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio
– Type of borrower (individual or limited company)
– Property type
(See our full guide to buy-to-let mortgage interest rates.)
### Fees
Typical fees include:
– Product fee: £999–£1,999 (can be added to the loan)
– Valuation fee: Free for standard properties or £150–£500 for more complex cases
– Broker fee: Varies by adviser
– Legal fees: Typically £800–£1,500 depending on complexity
### Additional Costs
– Early repayment charges (ERCs) apply during fixed/tracker periods
– Higher rates may apply for HMOs or limited company structures
– Some products offer cashback or free legals for remortgages
Always review the Key Facts Illustration (KFI) provided by your broker for a full breakdown.
## Pros & Cons
### Pros
– ✅ Competitive interest rates for buy-to-let
– ✅ Strong support for portfolio landlords
– ✅ Fast, broker-led application process
– ✅ Wide range of products for individuals and limited companies
– ✅ Backed by Lloyds Banking Group
### Cons
– ❌ Only available through brokers (no direct applications)
– ❌ Limited support for non-UK residents
– ❌ Strict property and income criteria
– ❌ No holiday let or Airbnb lending
BM Solutions is ideal for serious landlords who want a reliable lender with a proven track record.
## Alternatives & Competitors
While BM Solutions is a top-tier buy-to-let lender, it’s worth comparing alternatives based on your needs.
### Paragon Bank
– Specialist in portfolio and HMO lending
– More flexible for complex cases
– Higher fees but broader criteria
### The Mortgage Works (TMW)
– Part of Nationwide Building Society
– Competitive for first-time landlords
– Offers green mortgages for energy-efficient properties
### Aldermore
– Welcomes self-employed and limited company borrowers
– More lenient on credit history
– Slightly higher rates
### NatWest and Barclays
– Mainstream banks with strong digital platforms
– Good for lower LTVs and standard properties
– Less flexible for complex portfolios
Your mortgage broker can help you compare these lenders and identify the best fit for your situation.
## FAQs
### 1. Can I get a BM Solutions mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes, BM Solutions accepts first-time landlords, provided you meet their income and property criteria. However, some products may be restricted to experienced landlords, especially for HMOs or limited company applications.
### 2. Does BM Solutions offer mortgages to limited companies?
Yes, BM Solutions provides buy-to-let mortgages for Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) registered in the UK. The company must be set up with appropriate SIC codes, and directors must provide personal guarantees.
### 3. Can I apply directly to BM Solutions?
No, BM Solutions only accepts applications via authorised mortgage brokers. This ensures you receive regulated advice and are matched with suitable products.
### 4. What is the minimum deposit for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage?
The minimum deposit is typically 25% (75% LTV), although lower LTVs may offer better rates. Some products may allow up to 80% LTV for experienced landlords.
### 5. How long does the application process take?
On average, the process takes 4–6 weeks from AIP to completion. Delays can occur due to valuation issues, legal complexities, or missing documents.
### 6. Are BM Solutions mortgages available for HMOs?
Yes, but only for experienced landlords. The property must meet specific HMO criteria, and the borrower must have a proven track record.
### 7. What documents do I need to apply?
You’ll need proof of ID, proof of income, details of existing properties, tenancy agreements, and possibly company documents if applying via an SPV.
### 8. Can I remortgage with BM Solutions?
Yes, BM Solutions offers remortgage products with options
