Buying property in an SMSF Q&As: Part 1
Holding real property in an SMSF is a popular strategy, but the rules can be confusing. We answer some common questions from our readers.
SMSFs and property
Set out below are the latest guides that relate to smsfs and property.
Can I live in my SMSF property?
It’s a common question which is generally answered with a firm no, but there are exceptions to the rule.
Q&A: How do we structure our SMSF to collect rent as a pension if my wife is under preservation age?
How can we structure/split our fund between pension and accumulation phase so I can draw rent as pension for me?
SMSFs: Investment property tax deduction mistakes to avoid
Property investment is popular with SMSFs, so it’s important to know what your fund can and can’t claim as investment property tax deductions if you want to stay on the right side of the ATO.
Q&A: Can an SMSF invest on a “tenants in common” basis in commercial property, funded by a mortgage?
When we’re looking at joint ownership of property, there are a few things that we need to consider. There are really two quite distinct ways that direct property interest can be held when there’s multiple owners.
SMSF loans: What are the SMSF borrowing rules?
The ability to borrow to invest gives SMSF trustees additional flexibility when choosing investment assets, but it’s not open slather. Strict rules apply.
Property development in an SMSF: Recent ATO guidance
If you are thinking about using your SMSF for a property development it pays to understand the ATO rules. Failure to do so could be costly.
Q&A: Can I own an overseas house in my SMSF?
Can an overseas house be part of a SMSF? It is not rented out, but it is still an investment property to be sold later to help us with superannuation income later.
SMSF property ownership: Trustee requirements and obligations
The third article in our SMSFs and Property series looks at the all-important compliance requirements and considerations for SMSFs that own direct property.
SMSFs and property: Business real property
In Part 2 of our series on SMSFs and property investment, we look at the pros and cons of holding business property in your fund.
Q&A: Does a property owned by an SMSF need to be sold upon retirement or can we take possession?
We have a real estate property in our SMSF that is rented out and passes the sole purpose test. Our fund is only two members, my wife and I. When we retire, does an asset like this need to be liquidated, or could the members take possession of the property?
SMSF property ownership options and opportunities
One of the attractions of SMSFs is their ability to invest in real property, and there are many ways trustees can go about it.
Q&A: Can you transfer an investment property into an SMSF?
Remember that it is not an asset that you own. It’s owned by the trust. Even if you’re a beneficiary of the family trust, the trustee can give you income, it can assign you income, but you don’t own the assets.
SMSF property investment rules
The ability to invest in real property is one of the attractions of SMSFs, but it’s tightly regulated.
Property development in your SMSF: What to consider
Rising property prices have seen more SMSFs move into property development, but strict rules apply.
How to buy a commercial property and lease it through your SMSF
With an SMSF you can buy the property used by your business to become your own landlord. But how do you ensure you stay on the right side of the tax man?
