## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage Guide: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
If you’re considering investing in rental property, securing a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be one of your best options. BM Solutions, the buy-to-let arm of Birmingham Midshires, is a well-established name in the UK mortgage market, known for competitive rates and a streamlined application process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgages in 2025 — from eligibility and application steps to interest rates, required documents, and how brokers can help. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor, this guide is designed to help you make informed decisions.
## Overview: Who Are BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires?
BM Solutions is the specialist buy-to-let lending brand of Birmingham Midshires, a division of Lloyds Banking Group. While Birmingham Midshires once offered a range of retail banking services, it now focuses exclusively on mortgage lending, particularly in the buy-to-let sector.
BM Solutions has built a reputation for being one of the UK’s leading buy-to-let lenders, offering competitive products tailored to landlords. Although it doesn’t deal directly with the public, BM Solutions works exclusively through authorised mortgage brokers, ensuring borrowers receive expert advice and guidance throughout the process.
### Key Features of BM Solutions:
– Specialises in buy-to-let mortgages only
– Part of Lloyds Banking Group
– Offers products for individual landlords and limited companies
– Known for efficient service and fast turnaround times
– Access available only via mortgage intermediaries
BM Solutions has consistently ranked among the top choices for landlords due to its stable lending criteria, reasonable rates, and commitment to supporting the private rental sector. Its focus on buy-to-let means borrowers benefit from products designed specifically for investment properties, not repurposed residential mortgage products.
(See our full guide to buy-to-let mortgages for a broader overview of the market.)
## Eligibility & Requirements for a BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage
To qualify for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage in 2025, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These are designed to ensure that borrowers are financially stable and that the property is a sound investment.
### General Eligibility Criteria:
– You must be at least 25 years old
– Maximum age at end of mortgage term: 75
– UK resident (non-residents not currently eligible)
– Minimum income: £25,000 per annum (not including rental income)
– Maximum of 3 properties mortgaged with BM Solutions (up to 10 across all lenders)
– Property must be in England, Wales, or mainland Scotland
### Property Requirements:
– Must be suitable for letting (no holiday lets or HMOs)
– Minimum property value: £60,000
– Maximum loan-to-value (LTV): 75%
– Property must be in good condition and meet standard construction criteria
### Documents You’ll Need:
– Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
– Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
– Proof of income (SA302s, tax returns, or payslips)
– Mortgage statements for existing properties
– Tenancy agreements (if applicable)
– Bank statements (typically last 3 months)
### Limited Company Applications:
BM Solutions does not currently offer buy-to-let mortgages to limited companies. If you’re looking to invest through a company structure, you’ll need to explore alternative lenders (see Alternatives & Competitors section).
(For more details, read our guide on mortgage eligibility criteria.)
## Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage involves several stages, but working with a qualified mortgage broker can simplify the process significantly.
### Step 1: Speak to a Mortgage Broker
Because BM Solutions only accepts applications through intermediaries, your first step is to consult a mortgage broker who has access to BM Solutions products. They’ll assess your financial situation and help you determine if you meet the criteria.
### Step 2: Obtain a Decision in Principle (DIP)
Your broker will submit a Decision in Principle (DIP) on your behalf. This is a preliminary check to confirm that you’re likely to be approved, based on your income, credit history, and the property details.
### Step 3: Submit a Full Mortgage Application
Once your DIP is approved, you can move forward with a full application. This includes submitting all required documentation and property details. Your broker will manage this process and liaise with BM Solutions on your behalf.
### Step 4: Property Valuation
BM Solutions will arrange a valuation of the property to ensure it meets their lending criteria and is suitable for letting. This is typically completed within 5–10 working days.
### Step 5: Mortgage Offer
If the valuation is satisfactory and all documentation checks out, BM Solutions will issue a formal mortgage offer. This is usually valid for 6 months.
### Step 6: Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal side of the transaction, and once everything is in order, the mortgage funds will be released. The entire process typically takes 4–6 weeks from application to completion.
## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Interest Rates & Fees in 2025
BM Solutions offers a variety of fixed and tracker rate products, with terms ranging from 2 to 5 years. Rates are competitive and often among the lowest in the market for qualifying borrowers.
### Typical Interest Rates (as of early 2025):
– 2-year fixed: from 4.89% (up to 60% LTV)
– 5-year fixed: from 5.29% (up to 75% LTV)
– Tracker rates: starting at Bank of England base rate + 2.5%
Note: Rates vary based on LTV, loan amount, and borrower profile. Speak to a broker for personalised quotes.
### Fees:
– Product fees: £0 to £1,995 (can often be added to the loan)
– Valuation fees: Free on some products; otherwise based on property value
– Legal fees: Typically paid by the borrower; some products include free legals for remortgages
– Early repayment charges (ERCs): Apply during fixed/tracker periods, usually 2–5%
### Rental Coverage Requirements:
BM Solutions uses Interest Coverage Ratios (ICRs) to assess affordability:
– Basic rate taxpayers: 125% at 5.5% stress rate
– Higher rate taxpayers: 145% at 5.5%
– Limited company applications: Not accepted
(For more on how buy-to-let affordability is calculated, see our affordability guide.)
## Pros & Cons of BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgages
### Pros:
– Competitive interest rates
– Fast and efficient application process
– Backed by Lloyds Banking Group
– Access to experienced broker network
– Wide range of fixed and tracker products
– Free valuation and legals on some remortgage deals
### Cons:
– Only available via brokers — no direct applications
– No support for limited company borrowers
– Strict eligibility criteria (e.g. minimum income, UK residency)
– Maximum of 3 properties with BM Solutions
Overall, BM Solutions is a solid choice for individual landlords seeking a straightforward buy-to-let mortgage with competitive pricing and reliable service.
## Alternatives & Competitors
While BM Solutions is a top-tier lender, it’s not the only option. Depending on your circumstances, other lenders may offer more flexibility or better terms.
### Top Competitors:
1. **The Mortgage Works (TMW)** – Offers products for both individuals and limited companies, with similar rates and more flexible property criteria.
2. **Paragon Bank** – Known for supporting portfolio landlords and limited company structures. Offers specialist products for HMOs and multi-unit blocks.
3. **Precise Mortgages** – Specialist lender offering flexible underwriting and support for borrowers with complex income or credit histories.
4. **Aldermore** – Good for portfolio landlords and those with non-standard properties.
5. **Santander** – Offers competitive rates and allows up to 3 buy-to-let properties.
Each lender has its own strengths. If you’re investing via a limited company or have more than 3 properties, BM Solutions may not be ideal, and one of the above may be more suitable.
(See our comparison of the best buy-to-let mortgage lenders in 2025.)
## FAQs
### 1. Can I apply directly to BM Solutions?
No. BM Solutions only accepts applications through authorised mortgage brokers. This ensures borrowers receive expert advice tailored to their needs.
### 2. Does BM Solutions offer mortgages to limited companies?
As of 2025, BM Solutions does not lend to limited companies. If you’re investing through a company, consider lenders like Paragon, TMW, or Precise Mortgages.
### 3. What is the minimum income required?
You must earn at least £25,000 per year (excluding rental income) to qualify. Joint applicants must each meet this threshold individually.
### 4. Can I get a BM Solutions mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes, BM Solutions accepts first-time landlords, provided you meet the income and credit criteria. However, you may face stricter affordability checks.
### 5. How many buy-to-let properties can I own with BM Solutions?
You can have up to 3 buy-to-let mortgages with BM Solutions and up to 10 across all lenders. Portfolio landlords may need to look elsewhere.
### 6. What types of property are accepted?
BM Solutions accepts standard residential properties suitable for letting. They do not finance HMOs, holiday lets, or properties with non-standard construction.
### 7. How long does the application process take?
Typically 4–6 weeks from application to completion, depending on the complexity of the case and how quickly documents are submitted.
### 8. Are early repayment charges applicable?
Yes. Most BM Solutions products have ERCs during the fixed or tracker period. These are usually between 1–5% depending on the product and term.
### 9. Can
