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Case Study – The Impact of Noting the Incorrect Entity on a Contract of Sale
Incorrect entity details on an SMSF Contract of Sale can trigger double stamp duty, finance delays, and compliance breaches. This case study explains why precise entity naming is critical when purchasing property through an SMSF, the risks involved, and how reviewing Bare Trust and Holding Trust documents before signing can prevent costly settlement issues.
3 min read
What Is an SMSF? Benefits, Rules & Who Should Start a Self-Managed Super Fund
Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) give you direct control over your retirement investments, from shares to property. This guide explains the key SMSF rules you must know — the Sole Purpose Test, tax treatment, in-house asset limits, and the trustee choices that affect borrowing. Learn why many Australians choose SMSFs and how partnering with SMSF specialists makes setup and compliance straightforward.
4 min read
Structuring SMSFs to Buy Property
Buying investment property in your SMSF can diversify your retirement strategy, but strict rules apply. Learn how SMSF property investment works, from borrowing under an LRBA to trustee structures, compliance requirements, and risks. Discover why corporate trustees may offer more flexibility and why professional advice is essential before purchasing property in a self-managed super fund.
4 min read
SMSF Property Investment Structures Explained
Investing in property through an SMSF requires the right structure. Corporate trustees offer flexibility when members join or leave, while individual trustees may create administrative challenges. Both require a bare trust for borrowing, but lenders often prefer corporate trustee setups. Understanding SMSF trustee structures is key to compliant and effective property investment.
2 min read
Understanding SMSF Property Loans
SMSF property loans differ from standard home loans, with higher fees, stricter rules, and fewer features. Using a standard broker or applying directly to a lender can result in mistakes, penalties, and missed opportunities. Trustees must understand lender rules, liquidity, serviceability, and compliance requirements to protect their SMSF and long-term retirement savings.
3 min read
Related Party Loans and SMSF Property Borrowing
A related party SMSF loan occurs when the fund borrows from a member or associate. While these loans can be cost-effective, they require strict compliance with superannuation rules. Mortgage brokers can explain general SMSF loan mechanics and risks, but trustees should seek legal and accounting advice for structuring and compliance.
2 min read
Rules for Unlocking Equity in SMSF Property
SMSF members cannot release equity from fund properties for personal use or use SMSF property as security for other loans. Repairs and maintenance are allowed, but renovations or improvements must follow strict superannuation rules. Understanding these restrictions is critical to keeping your SMSF compliant and safeguarding retirement savings.
2 min read
Residential Property in SMSF
Discover the unique rules for owning residential investment property in an SMSF. Trustees cannot live in or rent the property to friends or family, cannot acquire residential property from related parties under most conditions, and must use an LRBA structure for borrowing. Learn what it takes to stay compliant with these property rules.
3 min read
Understanding Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangements (LRBA) in SMSFs
A Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement (LRBA) enables an SMSF to borrow to acquire an asset while restricting lender recourse to that asset. Trustees should understand LRBA mechanics, borrowing risks, and that lenders may require personal guarantees which can reintroduce personal liability. Professional legal and financial advice is recommended before entering into LRBA lending arrangements.
3 min read
Can I Buy an Overseas Property in my SMSF?
Can you buy overseas property in your SMSF? The ATO allows it, but strict rules apply. Overseas property cannot be used as a holiday home, and borrowing against it is almost impossible with Australian banks. Trustees must meet complex compliance requirements, manage audits, and navigate foreign ownership laws. Discover the risks, challenges, and professional help needed before your SMSF invests abroad.
3 min read
What Is a Bare Trust in an SMSF?
A bare trust is essential when an SMSF buys property with a loan. The bare trustee holds legal title while the SMSF retains beneficial ownership, ensuring compliance with superannuation law and protecting members’ retirement savings. Learn how bare trusts work in limited recourse borrowing arrangements, why proper setup and stamping are critical, and the risks trustees face if the structure is not executed correctly.
3 min read
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