Welcome to the first instalment of our educational series on Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSF).
In this series, we’ll share a range of articles designed to help you better understand how SMSFs work and what’s involved when using them as part of a property investment strategy.
Each article complements our video content, giving you the flexibility to learn in the way that suits you best – whether you prefer to watch, read, or combine both.
Over the coming articles, you’ll hear from the team at Entourage, alongside our trusted property wealth strategist partners at Nuestar and accountant partners at Wheelhouse Advisory, as we unpack the key considerations step by step.
What is a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF)?
A Self-Managed Super Fund is a private superannuation fund where the members are directly responsible for managing the fund and making all investment decisions. Unlike retail or industry super funds, an SMSF gives members full control over how their super is invested.
However, with that control comes responsibility.
The sole purpose of an SMSF is to provide retirement benefits for its members. This means every decision made within the fund must comply with strict superannuation laws and regulations, and members take on personal legal obligations for the fund’s administration and compliance.
How SMSFs differ from retail and industry funds
With retail and industry super funds, investment decisions are made on your behalf by professional fund managers. In an SMSF, that responsibility shifts entirely to you as a trustee.
This allows for greater flexibility and control – including the ability to invest directly in property – but it also means trustees must:
- Understand and follow superannuation legislation
- Ensure all investments meet compliance requirements
- Manage ongoing administration and reporting obligations
Because of this, SMSFs are often best suited to those who are prepared to take a hands-on approach and seek expert advice along the way.
What we’ll cover in the rest of the series
SMSFs can be complex, and property purchases within super require careful planning. Throughout the rest of this video series, we’ll be covering topics such as:
- Setting up an SMSF
- SMSF lending requirements
- Buying residential and commercial property through superannuation
- Long-term wealth creation strategies
- Real-world case studies
Each video is designed to build on the last, helping you gain clarity and confidence before making any decisions.
Next steps
If you’re considering purchasing property within your SMSF, education is the first step. Understanding how SMSFs work, what’s permitted, and what obligations are involved can help you make informed decisions that align with your long-term retirement goals.
Work with the right experts
Purchasing property within an SMSF requires specialist advice across property strategy, lending, and compliance. That’s why this series brings together experts across each discipline.
If you’d like personalised advice or want to explore whether an SMSF property strategy is right for you, we encourage you to connect with our trusted collaborators:
- Candice Joseph from Entourage SMSF lending
- Antoinette Sagaria from Entourage Buyer and Vendor Advocate
- Nick Hagen from Nuestar Property Wealth Strategist
- Sean Gavin from Wheelhouse Advisory SMSF setup, structuring and compliance
Together, our teams work closely to ensure every part of your SMSF property journey is aligned, compliant, and strategically sound.
Watch the next video in the series to continue building your understanding, or get in touch with our team if you’d like to discuss your situation in more detail.