## BM Solutions Buy-to-Let Mortgage: The Complete 2025 Guide
If you’re considering investing in rental property, a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage could be a strong option. BM Solutions, the buy-to-let arm of Birmingham Midshires, is a well-established lender known for offering competitive rates and a streamlined process for landlords. Whether you’re a first-time investor or an experienced portfolio landlord, understanding how BM Solutions operates can help you make an informed decision.
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 steps to interest rates and common FAQs, this article is designed to be your go-to resource. We’ll also compare BM Solutions to other lenders and provide practical tips for UK and international borrowers alike.
## Overview: BM Solutions and Birmingham Midshires
BM Solutions is a specialist buy-to-let mortgage brand operated by Birmingham Midshires, itself a division of Lloyds Banking Group. While Birmingham Midshires has a long history dating back to 1986, BM Solutions was established in the early 2000s to focus exclusively on the growing demand for buy-to-let lending.
BM Solutions does not offer residential mortgages or savings accounts. Instead, it concentrates solely on providing buy-to-let mortgage products to landlords via intermediaries. This means you can’t apply directly as a borrower—you must go through a mortgage broker.
As of 2025, BM Solutions remains one of the UK’s leading buy-to-let lenders, known for:
– Competitive fixed and tracker interest rates
– A wide range of loan-to-value (LTV) options
– Support for portfolio landlords
– Efficient online systems for brokers
– Consistent lending criteria
Because BM Solutions is broker-only, it’s essential to work with an experienced mortgage adviser who understands their criteria and can guide you through the process. (See our guide on working with mortgage brokers.)
## Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility criteria and documentation required. BM Solutions has specific requirements that vary slightly depending on whether you’re a first-time landlord or a portfolio investor.
### General Eligibility Criteria
– **Age**: Applicants must be at least 25 years old and no older than 75 at the end of the mortgage term.
– **UK Residency**: You must be a UK resident with a UK bank account. BM Solutions does not currently lend to non-UK residents.
– **Credit History**: A clean credit history is essential. Minor issues may be accepted, but serious defaults or bankruptcies are likely to be declined.
– **Income**: Minimum earned income of £25,000 per annum (excluding rental income) is required for all applicants.
### Property Requirements
– **Location**: Properties must be located within the UK (excluding the Channel Islands and Isle of Man).
– **Type**: Standard residential properties are acceptable. BM Solutions may consider HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) and new builds, but with stricter criteria.
– **Value**: Minimum property value is typically £50,000, though this may vary depending on location and type.
– **Tenancy**: Properties must be let under an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement.
### Required Documents
– Proof of ID (passport or driving licence)
– Proof of address (utility bills or bank statements)
– Proof of income (payslips, tax returns, or SA302s)
– Existing mortgage statements (if applicable)
– Portfolio details (for landlords with 4+ properties)
– Property details including EPC certificate
(For a full list, see our guide on mortgage documentation.)
## Application Process Step-by-Step
Applying for a BM Solutions buy-to-let mortgage involves several stages, all of which must be handled through a registered mortgage broker. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:
### Step 1: Speak to a Broker
Since BM Solutions is a broker-only lender, your first step is to consult with a qualified mortgage adviser. They’ll assess your financial situation and recommend suitable products.
### Step 2: Decision in Principle (DIP)
Your broker will submit a Decision in Principle (also known as an Agreement in Principle) to BM Solutions. This involves a soft credit check and basic eligibility checks.
Timeline: 24–48 hours
### Step 3: Full Mortgage Application
Once your DIP is approved, your broker will submit a full mortgage application. This includes uploading all required documents and property details.
Timeline: 3–5 working days for initial assessment
### Step 4: Valuation
BM Solutions will arrange a property valuation to confirm its market value and rental potential.
Timeline: 5–10 working days
### Step 5: Underwriting & Offer
After valuation, the underwriter will review all documents and issue a formal mortgage offer if everything is satisfactory.
Timeline: 7–10 working days
### Step 6: Legal Work & Completion
Your solicitor will handle the legal conveyancing. Once all checks are complete, the mortgage funds are released.
Timeline: 2–4 weeks
(See our full guide to the mortgage application process.)
## Rates & Fees
BM Solutions offers a variety of fixed and tracker rate buy-to-let mortgages. As of 2025, here’s what you can expect in terms of pricing:
### Interest Rates
– **2-Year Fixed**: Starting from 4.75% (subject to LTV and product)
– **5-Year Fixed**: Starting from 4.99%
– **Tracker Rates**: Typically 0.75%–1.25% above Bank of England base rate
Note: Rates are subject to change and depend on your personal circumstances, LTV, and property type.
### Fees
– **Product Fee**: Usually £995–£1,995, but some fee-free options are available
– **Valuation Fee**: Often free for standard properties; otherwise £150–£500
– **Broker Fee**: Varies by adviser; some charge a flat fee, others a percentage
– **Legal Fees**: Typically £500–£1,500 depending on complexity
### Overall Costs
When comparing products, always consider the Annual Percentage Rate of Charge (APRC), which reflects the total cost of borrowing over the term.
(Use our mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments.)
## Pros & Cons
### Pros
– **Competitive Rates**: BM Solutions often offers some of the lowest fixed rates in the market.
– **Fast Processing**: Known for efficient underwriting and online systems.
– **Portfolio Landlord Friendly**: Accepts up to 10 mortgaged properties per applicant.
– **Flexible Criteria**: Accepts a range of property types and tenant profiles.
### Cons
– **Broker-Only Access**: You must go through a mortgage broker, which may involve extra fees.
– **No Lending to Limited Companies**: BM Solutions only lends to individuals, not SPVs or corporate structures.
– **Strict Income Requirements**: £25,000 minimum earned income rule excludes some applicants.
– **No Direct Customer Support**: All communication goes through your broker.
## Alternatives & Competitors
While BM Solutions is a strong choice, it’s worth comparing other buy-to-let lenders to ensure you get the best deal.
### The Mortgage Works (TMW)
– Offers lending to limited companies
– More flexible on income requirements
– Competitive rates, especially for portfolio landlords
### Paragon Bank
– Specialises in complex buy-to-let cases
– Supports HMOs and multi-unit blocks
– More expensive but more flexible
### NatWest and Barclays
– Mainstream banks with competitive rates
– Suitable for first-time landlords
– May offer incentives like cashback
(See our comparison of top buy-to-let mortgage lenders.)
## FAQs
### 1. Can I apply for a BM Solutions mortgage without a broker?
No. BM Solutions is a broker-only lender, which means all applications must be submitted through a registered mortgage intermediary. They do not offer direct-to-consumer services. A broker can help assess your eligibility, recommend suitable products, and manage the application process on your behalf.
### 2. Does BM Solutions lend to limited companies?
No. BM Solutions only lends to individual applicants and does not currently support limited company or SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) structures. If you’re looking to invest through a company, consider lenders like Paragon Bank or The Mortgage Works.
### 3. What is the minimum income requirement?
BM Solutions requires all applicants to have a minimum earned income of £25,000 per year, excluding rental income. This must be verifiable through payslips, tax returns, or self-assessment documents.
### 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, your application may be assessed more cautiously compared to experienced landlords.
### 5. What types of properties does BM Solutions accept?
BM Solutions accepts standard residential properties, including houses and flats. They may also consider HMOs and new builds, but with stricter lending criteria and lower LTV limits.
### 6. How many properties can I have with BM Solutions?
BM Solutions allows up to 10 mortgaged buy-to-let properties per applicant. If you have more than this, you may need to look at specialist portfolio lenders.
### 7. What is the typical mortgage term?
BM Solutions offers mortgage terms ranging from 5 to 35 years. The maximum age at the end of the term is 75.
### 8. Are early repayment charges (ERCs) applicable?
Yes. Most BM Solutions fixed-rate products come with early repayment charges during the fixed term. These are usually 1%–5% depending on how early you repay.
### 9. Can I remortgage with BM Solutions?
Yes. BM Solutions offers remortgage products with or without capital raising. These
