SMSF investor? Here's how we can help before the changes to SMSF borrowing

If you're a self-managed super fund (SMSF) investor, chances are you've already heard about the impending changes to residential property borrowing.

As of 10 August 2026, new federal legislation will prevent SMSFs from entering into new borrowing arrangements to acquire residential investment property. This fast-approaching deadline presents a timely opportunity for SMSF investors to consider how a ready-to-rent investment property fits within their long-term strategies.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re looking to utilise a LRBA to purchase a residential investment property.

1. The changes are strictly prospective, so until 10 August, investors will still be able to use an LRBA lending structure to purchase a residential investment property.
2. Timeframes are critical, and investors should seek financial advice to ensure any proposed LRBA arrangements satisfy the transitional provisions before 10 August.
3. After 10 August, existing LRBAs will not be affected.
4. The new laws are not applicable to business real property, including many commercial property investments.
5. If you don’t yet have a SMSF but want to use an LRBA lending structure to purchase a residential investment property, there is still time to set one up. However, it is critical that you don’t rush into this process without being appropriately assessed and advised. Speak with a professional to model different scenarios and ensure that it is the right strategy for you.

Across Melbourne's most sought-after suburbs, we offer a consistent selection of ready-to-rent homes, providing opportunities for SMSF investors seeking to act before the changes take effect.

Newly built, move-in ready homes offer several advantages for investors.

1. Brand-new homes offer the potential for higher depreciation deductions, reducing your SMSF's taxable rental income.
2. Newly built homes can provide greater certainty around condition, maintenance requirements and ongoing costs when compared to established properties.
3. Our completed homes are offered at a fixed price, giving you greater cost certainty and budgeting confidence.
4. Newly constructed homes require less maintenance from day one, plus our homes come with a 12-month maintenance period and 50-year structural guarantee.
5. Our modern, energy-efficient homes with smart layouts, new appliances and contemporary colour palettes are designed to appeal to a broad range of tenants, supporting strong rental demand and the potential for reduced vacancy periods.

But perhaps the biggest appeal of move-in ready homes - and one that is essential for those needing to act before 10 August - is the certainty they provide around timing.

Unlike off-the-plan purchases, or established properties that may require renovations or updates before being tenant-ready, completed homes allow investors to generate rental income immediately. Our ready-to-rent homes offer certainty around timelines and delivery, and the streamlined purchase process involves a one-part contract structure.

To learn more about our available completed homes, browse current listings or submit an enquiry and a member of our team will be in touch.

Disclaimer: This article contains general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Whether an investment property is suitable for a SMSF depends on individual circumstances. SMSF borrowing rules and taxation outcomes may change. Seek independent financial, legal and tax advice before making any investment decision.