SMSF Australia Blog Articles

Can you make a Downsizer contribution when buying a bigger home?

Yes, the downsizer contribution allows eligible Australians aged 55+ to contribute up to $300,000 per person into super after selling their home

Joan Sayas

November 8, 2025

Read time: 4 mins

How do foreign resident capital gains withholding clearance certificates work with SMSFs?

From 1 January 2025, all foreign SMSF property vendors must obtain a Foreign Resident CGT Withholding Clearance Certificate .

Luke Edwards

October 22, 2025

Read time: 4 mins

Can I sell my SMSF property to myself?

Yes, you can buy property from your SMSF, but it must be at market value and fully arm's length. Learn the rules, valuation requirements, and tax consequences

Joan Sayas

October 12, 2025

Read time: 4 mins

Can I claim a deduction for visiting my SMSF investment property to do maintenance or inspections?

Travel to inspect or maintain an SMSF residential property is not tax deductible per the ATO. Learn what expenses are allowed and how commercial property differ

Christopher Overton

September 1, 2025

Read time: 4 mins

Can my SMSF buy units in an unlisted real estate investment trust

Yes, SMSFs can invest in unlisted REITs, including public wholesale funds and private trusts. Learn the in-house asset rules, related party limits, and compliance

Emily Cooper

August 22, 2025

Read time: 5 mins

Can I use a Buyers Agent for my SMSF?

Yes, your SMSF can engage a buyer's agent to find and negotiate property. Learn what an SMSF-specialist buyer's agent does, how much they cost, and the compliance rules that apply

Christopher Overton

August 14, 2025

Read time: 4 mins

Does an SMSF pay stamp duty on a property purchase?

A Self-Managed Super fund (SMSF) is subject to stamp duty when purchasing a property. It is crucial to obtain local expertise and advice when purchasing a property in an SMSF.

Joan Sayas

July 10, 2025

Read time: 4 mins

What is the penalty for living in an SMSF property?

Living in or leasing an SMSF residential property to a member or relative can trigger penalties up to $19,800 per breach, trustee disqualification, or non-complying fund status. Learn the rules

Christopher Overton

June 8, 2025

Read time: 5 mins

What happens when you sell SMSF property

When your SMSF sells property, capital gains tax applies at 10% (with the one-third discount) net of ECPI if in pension phase. Learn how to calculate cost base, net capital gains, and deferred CGT

Christopher Overton

May 25, 2025

Read time: 5 mins

How often does a SMSF need to value property

SMSFs must value all property at market value at 30 June each year. Learn the ATO's guidelines on acceptable valuation evidence, when a formal appraisal is required, and the audit implications

Emily Cooper

May 21, 2025

Read time: 4 mins

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