## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage Guide: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
If you’re considering investing in rental property, a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be the right choice. As the dedicated intermediary lending arm of Birmingham Midshires, BM Solutions is a major player in the UK buy-to-let mortgage market. Known for competitive rates and a streamlined broker-led application process, BM Solutions offers a range of products tailored to landlords—from first-time investors to experienced portfolio owners.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgages in 2025. We’ll walk through eligibility criteria, the application process, interest rates, required documentation, and how BM Solutions compares to other lenders. Whether you’re a UK resident or an international investor, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
## Overview of BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires
BM Solutions is the intermediary-only brand of Birmingham Midshires, a division of Lloyds Banking Group. While Birmingham Midshires no longer offers new mortgage products directly to consumers, BM Solutions continues to provide a wide range of buy-to-let mortgage options exclusively through mortgage brokers.
### A Brief History
Birmingham Midshires has a long-standing reputation in the UK mortgage market, dating back to the 1980s. In 1999, it became part of the Halifax Group, which later merged into Lloyds Banking Group. BM Solutions was established to serve the needs of mortgage intermediaries and has since become one of the UK’s leading buy-to-let lenders.
### What BM Solutions Offers
BM Solutions specialises in:
– Buy-to-let mortgages for individual landlords and limited companies
– Portfolio landlord solutions
– Remortgages and further advances
– Interest-only and repayment options
All applications must be submitted via a registered mortgage broker. BM Solutions does not deal directly with the public, ensuring that borrowers receive tailored advice and support throughout the process.
BM Solutions is particularly popular among landlords due to its consistent lending criteria, competitive interest rates, and efficient processing times.
## Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria and documentation required. BM Solutions maintains strict lending policies to ensure responsible borrowing.
### Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage in 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
– Be aged between 21 and 80 (loan must complete by age 80)
– Be a UK resident with a permanent UK address
– Have a minimum income of £25,000 per annum (not including rental income)
– Be applying through a registered mortgage broker
– Not be a first-time buyer (must own at least one UK property)
Note: BM Solutions does not currently accept applications from non-UK residents or overseas investors.
### Property Requirements
BM Solutions will lend on a variety of property types, including:
– Standard residential houses and flats
– New-build properties (subject to conditions)
– HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) for portfolio landlords
– Limited company-owned properties
However, they do not lend on:
– Studio flats under 30 sqm
– Properties above commercial premises
– Holiday lets or Airbnb-style short-term rentals
### Required Documents
Applicants will typically need to provide:
– Proof of ID (passport or driving licence)
– Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
– Proof of income (payslips, tax returns, or SA302s)
– Existing mortgage statements (if applicable)
– Tenancy agreements (for portfolio landlords)
(See our full guide on mortgage eligibility criteria for more detailed documentation requirements.)
## Application Process Step-by-Step
Applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage involves working with a registered mortgage broker. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
### Step 1: Initial Consultation
Speak with a mortgage broker who is authorised to submit applications to BM Solutions. They will assess your financial situation, property plans, and borrowing needs.
### Step 2: Decision in Principle (DIP)
Your broker will submit a Decision in Principle to BM Solutions. This involves a soft credit check and gives an indication of how much you can borrow.
### Step 3: Full Application
If the DIP is successful, your broker will complete the full mortgage application. This includes submitting all required documents and property details.
### Step 4: Valuation
BM Solutions will instruct a property valuation to ensure the property meets their lending criteria and to confirm the rental income is sufficient.
### Step 5: Underwriting
The application is reviewed by BM Solutions’ underwriters. They may request additional information or clarification during this stage.
### Step 6: Mortgage Offer
Once approved, a formal mortgage offer is issued. This is typically valid for 6 months.
### Step 7: Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal work, and once everything is in place, the funds will be released, and you’ll complete the purchase or remortgage.
### Timeline
The full process typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and how quickly documents are provided.
## Rates & Fees
Understanding the costs associated with a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage is crucial. In 2025, BM Solutions continues to offer competitive interest rates and transparent fee structures.
### Interest Rates
BM Solutions offers both fixed and tracker rate products. As of early 2025:
– 2-year fixed rates start from 4.49%*
– 5-year fixed rates start from 4.29%*
– Tracker rates are available from 4.39% (above Bank of England base rate)*
(*Rates are indicative and subject to change. Speak to a broker for current offers.)
Rates depend on:
– Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio
– Type of borrower (individual or limited company)
– Property type and location
### Fees
Typical fees include:
– Product fee: £999–£1,999 (can be added to the loan)
– Valuation fee: £200–£500 depending on property value
– Legal fees: Paid directly to your solicitor
– Early repayment charges (ERCs): Apply during fixed-rate periods
BM Solutions often offers fee-free products for lower LTVs, but these may come with slightly higher interest rates.
### Overall Cost
When comparing products, consider the total cost over the fixed term, not just the interest rate. Your broker will provide a Key Facts Illustration (KFI) outlining all charges.
## Pros & Cons
Like any lender, BM Solutions has its strengths and limitations. Here’s a balanced view.
### Pros
– Competitive interest rates and product range
– Efficient processing and fast turnaround times
– Specialist support for portfolio landlords
– Strong broker network ensures expert advice
– Backed by Lloyds Banking Group – financial stability
### Cons
– Only accessible via mortgage brokers – no direct applications
– Not available to first-time buyers or non-UK residents
– Limited flexibility on non-standard property types
– No support for holiday lets or short-term rentals
BM Solutions is best suited for experienced landlords or those working with an expert broker.
## Alternatives & Competitors
While BM Solutions is a top-tier buy-to-let lender, it’s worth comparing with other providers.
### Top Competitors in 2025
– **The Mortgage Works (TMW)**: A strong alternative for both individual and limited company landlords. Offers flexible criteria and competitive rates.
– **Paragon Bank**: Ideal for portfolio landlords and HMOs. Known for specialist underwriting.
– **Precise Mortgages**: Good for complex cases, including adverse credit and limited company structures.
– **Skipton Building Society**: Offers buy-to-let mortgages with lower fees and flexible criteria.
– **Aldermore**: Flexible lender for first-time landlords and those with complex income.
Each lender has its own strengths, so it’s essential to compare products with a broker to find the best fit for your circumstances.
(See our guide to the best buy-to-let mortgage lenders in 2025.)
## FAQs
### 1. Can I get a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes, you can, provided you already own a residential property. BM Solutions does not accept applications from first-time buyers, but first-time landlords who are existing homeowners are eligible.
### 2. Can I apply directly to BM Solutions?
No. BM Solutions operates exclusively through mortgage intermediaries. You must apply via a registered mortgage broker.
### 3. What is the minimum income required?
BM Solutions requires a minimum personal income of £25,000 per annum, excluding rental income. This ensures borrowers have sufficient financial stability.
### 4. Can I apply as a limited company?
Yes. BM Solutions offers products for Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) set up as limited companies. The company must be registered in the UK and meet specific criteria.
### 5. How many properties can I have with BM Solutions?
BM Solutions allows portfolio landlords to hold multiple mortgages, subject to underwriting. They define a portfolio landlord as someone with four or more mortgaged buy-to-let properties.
### 6. What is the maximum loan-to-value (LTV)?
BM Solutions offers up to 75% LTV on buy-to-let mortgages. Lower LTVs often come with better interest rates.
### 7. Are interest-only mortgages available?
Yes. BM Solutions offers both interest-only and capital repayment options. Interest-only is common for buy-to-let, but you must have a repayment strategy in place.
### 8. What types of properties are accepted?
Standard houses and flats are accepted. BM Solutions may lend on HMOs and new builds under certain conditions but excludes studio flats under 30 sqm, holiday lets, and properties above commercial premises.
### 9. How long does the application process take?
Typically, 4–8 weeks from initial application to completion. Working with an experienced broker can help speed up the process.
### 10. Can foreign nationals apply?
Currently, BM Solutions only accepts applications from UK residents. Non
