## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage Guide 2025: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re considering investing in rental property, a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be the key to unlocking your portfolio. BM Solutions, the buy-to-let arm of Birmingham Midshires, is one of the UK’s most prominent lenders in the landlord mortgage space. Known for competitive rates, flexible lending criteria, and broker-only access, BM Solutions has become a go-to choice for both new and experienced landlords.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgages in 2025 — from eligibility and application to interest rates, required documents, and how to work with brokers. Whether you’re a UK resident or an overseas investor, this resource will help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
## Overview: BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires
BM Solutions is a specialist buy-to-let mortgage provider operating under the Birmingham Midshires brand, which itself is a division of Lloyds Banking Group. While Birmingham Midshires once offered a broader range of mortgage products, it now focuses exclusively on buy-to-let mortgages through BM Solutions.
BM Solutions does not deal directly with the public. Instead, all applications must be submitted via authorised mortgage brokers. This broker-only model ensures that borrowers receive expert advice and that applications are thoroughly vetted before submission.
BM Solutions has built a strong reputation in the UK buy-to-let market thanks to:
– Competitive fixed and tracker mortgage rates
– Flexible lending criteria for portfolio landlords
– Efficient online application systems for brokers
– A wide range of property types accepted
– Support for limited company buy-to-let structures
With a strong presence in the intermediary mortgage market, BM Solutions continues to be one of the top lenders for landlords looking to expand or refinance their portfolios in 2025.
## Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements help the lender assess your ability to manage the mortgage and the viability of the property as a rental investment.
### Who Can Apply?
– UK residents aged 21 to 75 (must be under 70 at application to qualify for a 5-year term)
– First-time landlords accepted (subject to stricter criteria)
– Portfolio landlords (up to 10 mortgaged buy-to-let properties with BM Solutions)
– Limited companies (SPVs) accepted
– Ex-pats and international borrowers not currently accepted
### Income Requirements
– Minimum earned income of £25,000 per applicant (not including rental income)
– Joint applicants must have a combined income of at least £25,000
– No minimum income for remortgages with no capital raising (subject to affordability)
### Property Criteria
– Minimum property value: £50,000
– Must be located in England, Wales, or mainland Scotland
– Acceptable property types include standard houses, flats, new builds, HMOs (up to 5 bedrooms), and multi-unit freehold blocks
– Leasehold properties must have at least 70 years remaining on the lease
### Required Documents
Your broker will help you gather the necessary documents, which typically include:
– Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
– Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
– Proof of income (payslips, SA302s, or tax calculations for self-employed)
– Existing mortgage statements (if applicable)
– Tenancy agreements for existing rental properties
– Portfolio spreadsheet (for landlords with 4+ properties)
(For more on what you’ll need, see our guide to mortgage eligibility criteria.)
## Application Process Step-by-Step
Applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage involves working with an authorised mortgage broker. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
### Step 1: Initial Consultation
Speak with a mortgage broker who has access to BM Solutions products. They’ll assess your financial situation, property plans, and goals to determine if BM Solutions is the right fit.
### Step 2: Decision in Principle (DIP)
Your broker will submit a DIP application to BM Solutions. This is a soft credit check and gives an indication of how much you can borrow.
### Step 3: Full Mortgage Application
Once your offer on a property is accepted (or if you’re remortgaging), your broker submits a full application. You’ll need to provide all supporting documents at this stage.
### Step 4: Valuation and Underwriting
BM Solutions will instruct a property valuation to confirm the property’s market value and rental potential. Underwriters will assess your documents and financial profile.
### Step 5: Mortgage Offer
If approved, BM Solutions will issue a formal mortgage offer. This is typically valid for 6 months.
### Step 6: Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal work. Once all checks are complete, funds are released, and the mortgage completes.
### Timeline
– DIP: Same day
– Full application to offer: 5–10 working days (subject to valuation and underwriting)
– Completion: 4–8 weeks depending on legal work
## Rates & Fees
BM Solutions offers a variety of buy-to-let mortgage products, including fixed-rate and tracker options. Rates and fees can vary depending on the loan-to-value (LTV), property type, and borrower profile.
### Interest Rates (2025 Snapshot)
– 2-year fixed rates: From 4.49% (60% LTV)
– 5-year fixed rates: From 4.69% (60% LTV)
– Tracker rates: From 4.39% + Bank of England base rate
Note: Rates are subject to change and may vary based on your circumstances. Always check with your broker for the latest deals.
### Fees
– Product fees: Typically £995–£1,995 (can be added to the loan)
– Valuation fees: Free for standard properties on many products
– Legal fees: Vary depending on solicitor and property value
– Early repayment charges (ERCs): Apply to most fixed-rate deals
### Overall Costs
When assessing affordability, BM Solutions uses a rental coverage ratio (usually 125%–145% of mortgage payments at a stress-tested rate). Your broker will calculate this to ensure you meet affordability.
(See our full guide to buy-to-let mortgage rates for more detail.)
## Pros & Cons
### Pros
– Competitive interest rates and product range
– Accepts both individual and limited company applications
– Supports portfolio landlords with up to 10 properties
– Efficient broker portal and fast processing times
– No minimum income for remortgages without capital raising
### Cons
– Broker-only access (no direct applications)
– Not available to ex-pats or non-UK residents
– Strict stress testing on rental income
– Limited flexibility on unusual property types
BM Solutions is ideal for landlords seeking a reliable, well-known lender with a strong track record in the buy-to-let space — but it may not suit everyone, especially international investors.
## Alternatives & Competitors
While BM Solutions is a top-tier lender, it’s worth comparing other buy-to-let mortgage providers to find the best fit for your needs.
### Top Competitors
– The Mortgage Works (TMW): Offers flexible criteria and supports ex-pat landlords
– Paragon Bank: Excellent for portfolio and professional landlords
– Aldermore: Known for limited company and complex property cases
– NatWest: Competitive rates for standard buy-to-let
– Precise Mortgages: Good for HMOs and adverse credit
Each lender has its own strengths. For example, TMW may be more suitable for landlords with less experience, while Paragon excels in complex portfolios. Your broker will help you compare options based on your goals.
(See our comparison of the best buy-to-let mortgage lenders in the UK.)
## FAQs
### 1. Can I get a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes, BM Solutions does accept first-time landlords, provided you meet the income and credit criteria. However, you may face stricter affordability checks, and the maximum loan amount may be lower than for experienced landlords.
### 2. Does BM Solutions accept limited company applications?
Yes, BM Solutions accepts applications from Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) registered in the UK. The company must be set up solely for property letting, and all directors and shareholders must be named on the application.
### 3. Can I apply directly to BM Solutions?
No, BM Solutions is a broker-only lender. You must apply through a mortgage broker who has access to their intermediary platform.
### 4. What is the minimum income required?
BM Solutions requires a minimum earned income of £25,000 per applicant. This must come from employment or self-employment and cannot be solely rental income.
### 5. What is the maximum number of properties I can have?
BM Solutions allows up to 10 mortgaged buy-to-let properties with them. If you have more than 4 properties in total, you’ll be classed as a portfolio landlord and must provide additional documentation.
### 6. Are ex-pats or non-UK residents eligible?
As of 2025, BM Solutions does not offer buy-to-let mortgages to ex-pats or non-UK residents. You must be a UK tax resident to qualify.
### 7. What types of properties are accepted?
BM Solutions accepts standard houses, flats, HMOs (up to 5 bedrooms), and multi-unit freehold blocks. New builds and leasehold properties are also accepted, subject to criteria.
### 8. How long does the application process take?
From DIP to mortgage offer, the process typically takes 1–2 weeks. Completion can take 4–8 weeks depending on legal work and property type.
### 9. What happens if I want to repay early?
Most BM Solutions fixed-rate products come with early repayment charges (ERCs). These typically range from 1% to 5% of the loan amount, depending on the stage of the fixed term.
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