## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage: A Complete Guide for 2025
If you’re considering investing in rental property, a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be the key to unlocking your portfolio potential. As the specialist buy-to-let arm of Birmingham Midshires, BM Solutions offers a range of competitive mortgage products tailored to landlords across the UK. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time landlord, understanding how BM Solutions operates—and how to apply—can help you make informed, financially sound decisions.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgages in 2025. From eligibility requirements and application steps to current interest rates and documentation, we’ll walk you through the process with expert insight. We’ll also compare BM Solutions with other lenders, answer frequently asked questions, and help you determine whether this lender is right for your investment goals.
## Overview: Who Are BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires?
BM Solutions is a specialist buy-to-let mortgage brand under Birmingham Midshires, which itself is part of the Lloyds Banking Group—one of the UK’s largest financial institutions. While Birmingham Midshires no longer offers residential mortgages to new customers, its buy-to-let arm, BM Solutions, continues to be a major player in the landlord lending market.
### A Brief History
Birmingham Midshires was originally formed through the merger of several building societies in the 1980s and 1990s. It became part of the Halifax group in 1999 and subsequently joined Lloyds Banking Group in 2009. BM Solutions emerged as a dedicated buy-to-let mortgage provider, serving brokers and landlords exclusively.
### Services Offered
BM Solutions focuses solely on buy-to-let mortgages, offering a range of fixed and tracker rate products for:
– Individual landlords
– Limited company landlords
– Portfolio landlords (those with four or more properties)
They do not offer residential mortgages, current accounts, or savings products to new customers. All applications must be submitted via a mortgage broker, as BM Solutions does not deal directly with the public.
BM Solutions is known for its efficient online systems, competitive rates, and flexible lending criteria, making it a go-to choice for many UK landlords.
## Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria and documentation required. As of 2025, the lender has maintained a clear and structured approach to assessing applications.
### Who Can Apply?
BM Solutions accepts applications from:
– UK residents aged 21 to 80 (must be no older than 80 at the end of the mortgage term)
– Individual landlords or limited companies (SPVs)
– First-time landlords (subject to criteria)
– Portfolio landlords (with additional underwriting)
International or expat borrowers are not currently eligible for BM Solutions products.
### Income Requirements
– Minimum earned income: £25,000 per applicant (not including rental income)
– For joint applications, at least one applicant must meet the income threshold
– No upper income cap
### Property Criteria
BM Solutions lends on a wide range of property types, including:
– Standard residential houses and flats
– New-build properties (subject to conditions)
– HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) – for experienced landlords only
– Multi-unit freehold blocks (MUFBs) – limited to certain criteria
They typically do not lend on:
– Studio flats under 30m²
– Holiday lets or Airbnb-style properties
– Properties above commercial premises (case-by-case basis)
### Required Documents
Your broker will help you gather the necessary documents, which generally include:
– Proof of ID and address
– Latest 3 months’ bank statements
– Proof of income (payslips or SA302s for self-employed)
– Existing mortgage statements (for portfolio landlords)
– Property details and tenancy agreements (if applicable)
(See our full guide on mortgage eligibility criteria for more detailed requirements.)
## Application Process Step-by-Step
Applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage is a streamlined process, but it must be done through an authorised mortgage broker. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect in 2025:
### Step 1: Speak to a Mortgage Broker
BM Solutions does not accept direct applications. You’ll need to work with a broker registered with BM Solutions. They’ll assess your circumstances and recommend suitable products.
### Step 2: Obtain a Decision in Principle (DIP)
Your broker will submit a DIP request online. This involves a soft credit check and basic affordability assessment. If approved, you’ll receive an indication of how much you can borrow.
### Step 3: Submit Full Application
Once you’ve found a suitable property and have a DIP, your broker will submit the full mortgage application. This includes uploading all required documents and property details.
### Step 4: Valuation and Underwriting
BM Solutions will instruct a property valuation, typically within 3–5 working days. Meanwhile, underwriters will review your documents and assess the risk.
### Step 5: Mortgage Offer
If the valuation is satisfactory and underwriting is successful, BM Solutions will issue a formal mortgage offer. This is usually valid for 6 months.
### Step 6: Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal work, and once all checks are complete, funds will be released. The entire process typically takes 3–6 weeks from application to completion.
(For more help, read our full guide on how to apply for a buy-to-let mortgage.)
## Rates & Fees
Understanding the cost of borrowing is crucial when choosing a buy-to-let mortgage. BM Solutions offers competitive interest rates and transparent fees, but these can vary depending on your circumstances.
### Interest Rates (2025)
As of early 2025, BM Solutions offers:
– Fixed rates: Starting from 4.89% for 2-year fixes and 5.09% for 5-year fixes
– Tracker rates: Starting from 4.59% (typically linked to Bank of England base rate)
Rates depend on:
– Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio – lower LTVs get better rates
– Type of borrower – individual or limited company
– Property type – standard or HMO/MUFB
### Fees
Typical fees include:
– Product fee: £995–£1,995 (can be added to the loan)
– Valuation fee: Free on some products; otherwise £150–£500 depending on property value
– Legal fees: Paid separately to your solicitor
– Early repayment charges (ERCs): Apply during fixed/tracker periods
Always compare the total cost of borrowing, not just the interest rate. BM Solutions is often competitive when you factor in incentives like free valuations or cashback.
(See our full breakdown of current buy-to-let mortgage rates for more.)
## Pros & Cons
Like any lender, BM Solutions has its strengths and limitations. Here’s a balanced view to help you decide if it’s right for you.
### Pros
– Competitive interest rates for both individuals and limited companies
– Strong support for portfolio landlords
– Efficient online systems for brokers
– Free valuations and cashback on selected products
– Backed by Lloyds Banking Group – strong financial stability
### Cons
– Only available via mortgage brokers – no direct applications
– Not suitable for expat or international borrowers
– Limited flexibility on unusual property types
– Strict income requirements for first-time landlords
## Alternatives & Competitors
While BM Solutions is a leading buy-to-let lender, it’s worth comparing other options to ensure you get the best deal for your needs.
### Top Competitors in 2025
– The Mortgage Works (TMW): Offers more flexible criteria for first-time landlords and expats
– Paragon Bank: Excellent for HMOs and portfolio landlords
– Precise Mortgages: Specialist in adverse credit and complex properties
– Aldermore: Strong for limited company applications and flexible underwriting
– NatWest: Offers buy-to-let products for personal and company borrowers with competitive rates
Each lender has its own strengths, so your broker can help you compare products based on your specific goals.
(See our comparison of the best buy-to-let lenders in the UK.)
## FAQs
### 1. Can I get a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes, BM Solutions accepts first-time landlords, provided you meet the income and credit criteria. You must earn at least £25,000 annually, and your application will be assessed more cautiously than that of an experienced landlord.
### 2. Can I apply directly to BM Solutions?
No. BM Solutions operates exclusively through registered mortgage brokers. You’ll need to use a broker who has access to their products.
### 3. What is the minimum deposit required?
BM Solutions typically requires a minimum deposit of 25% (75% LTV). Some products may allow up to 80% LTV, but these come with higher interest rates.
### 4. Do they lend to limited companies?
Yes. BM Solutions offers a full range of buy-to-let mortgages for Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). The company must be registered in England or Wales and have appropriate SIC codes.
### 5. How long does the application process take?
On average, it takes 3–6 weeks from application to completion, depending on your circumstances and how quickly you provide documentation.
### 6. Are BM Solutions mortgages portable?
No. BM Solutions mortgages are not portable. If you sell the property, you’ll need to repay the mortgage in full and potentially pay early repayment charges.
### 7. Can I remortgage with BM Solutions?
Yes. BM Solutions offers remortgage products with free valuations and legal fees on selected deals. Remortgaging can be a good way to release equity or secure a better rate.
### 8. Do they offer interest-only mortgages?
Yes. Most BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgages are offered on an interest-only basis, which is common for rental properties. You’ll need a repayment strategy in place.
### 9. What credit score do
