Author: Xavier Quenon

The 2026 Federal Budget changed the conversation for Australian property investors.

For years, the familiar strategy looked the same: buy an established property, claim rental losses where eligible, hold for the long term and wait for capital growth. That approach won’t disappear overnight, especially for existing investments that have been grandfathered. But the direction of travel is clear. The tax system is now being reshaped to encourage investment into new housing supply.

That doesn’t mean property investing is finished. It means the rules have shifted, and the investors who do well from here will likely be the ones who get more selective about the type of property they buy and how they fund it.

One thing to be upfront about: Go Mortgage doesn’t provide property investment advice, tax advice or financial planning advice. We look at borrowing capacity, loan structure, lender selection, equity release, investment lending, SMSF lending and refinance options, and getting them right has rarely mattered more than it does now.

Demand is Still Strong. Supply is Still the Problem.

The Budget may have adjusted the tax settings, but it hasn’t touched the fundamentals of the housing market.

Australia still has a serious housing shortage. Population growth, migration, smaller household sizes and a run of below-target completions continue to prop up long-term demand for homes. Opteon’s July 2026 residential development commentary described a market shaped by acute undersupply and strong demographic demand, with new completions still lagging government targets.

That’s the part policy can’t fix quickly. A Budget can nudge investor behaviour, but it can’t conjure enough homes out of thin air. Not every property, suburb or development will perform. But quality property held over the medium to long term should still produce solid results, because the underlying supply and demand imbalance is very real.

What Actually Changed in the 2026 Budget

The Budget introduced major reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax.

Negative gearing on residential property will generally be limited to new builds. Existing investments made before 7:30pm AEST on 12 May 2026 have been grandfathered under the new arrangements. In practice, that gives new residential property a stronger policy tailwind, and Treasury has said the point of the change is to direct tax support towards new housing supply.

Capital gains tax is changing too. From 1 July 2027, the current 50% CGT discount will be replaced for many investors with cost base indexation and a minimum 30% tax rate on capital gains. Investors in new builds, though, can choose either the existing 50% discount or the new inflation-based arrangements, depending on their circumstances. That option is a big reason new property deserves a fresh look.

Why New Builds May Be More Attractive Now

The Budget has effectively put new housing under a spotlight. For investors, a new build may offer a few advantages worth weighing up:

• Negative gearing still applies to new residential property.
• New builds also qualify for full depreciation, which adds to the negative gearing benefit. (You can read more on the difference in depreciation on new versus older homes.)
• Investors in new builds can choose between the existing 50% CGT discount and the new inflation-based CGT rules.
• Newer homes tend to appeal to tenants after modern layouts, energy efficiency and low maintenance.
• New housing adds directly to supply, which is exactly where government policy is trying to steer investor money.

None of this makes every new build a good investment. It does mean the gap between a new and an established property is now real when it comes to cash flow and after-tax returns.

The “Missing Middle” Opportunity

One of the more useful points in Opteon’s report is the growing demand for medium-density housing, especially townhouses. Opteon calls townhouses the “missing middle”: the segment families reach for when they’ve been priced out of detached homes but still want more space than an apartment offers.

That’s an important theme for investors. Detached houses in strong capital-city locations keep getting more expensive. High-rise apartments can carry their own risks around oversupply, body corporate costs and investor-heavy ownership. Townhouses, duplexes and smaller boutique developments often sit comfortably in between: more affordable than a house, more liveable than many apartments, and attractive to renters and owner-occupiers alike.

For South East Queensland, that matters. Opteon identified Brisbane as a strong outperformer, supported by interstate migration and Olympic tailwinds. The report focuses on Brisbane rather than the Gold Coast specifically, but many of the same forces apply across the region: population growth, infrastructure investment, lifestyle migration and limited well-located land.

What About the Gold Coast and South East Queensland?

We’re positive on the Gold Coast and South East Queensland, but selective.

The region still has a lot going for it: population growth, interstate migration, limited developable land, major infrastructure spending, Olympic momentum, strong lifestyle appeal and tight rental markets in many pockets.

The caution is around what you actually buy. A well-located townhouse, a quality new home or a land-rich block in a growth corridor is a very different proposition from a generic investor-grade apartment in a tower where hundreds of near-identical units compete for the same tenants. The goal is to buy something that stacks up on location and tenant demand, funded with a structure you can sustain. If your plan also involves upgrading your own home or buying your next property alongside an investment, the order you do things in can change your borrowing position.

Regional Queensland May Deserve a Look Too

Another area worth watching is quality regional Queensland. Markets like Rockhampton, Toowoomba, Bundaberg and parts of Ipswich, along with other established regional growth corridors, can offer a different kind of opportunity: lower entry prices, stronger rental yields, more land content and less reliance on a big borrowing capacity, often underpinned by local employment and infrastructure spending.

This isn’t a blanket recommendation. Some regional markets are volatile, so it pays to understand employment diversity, vacancy rates, local supply pipelines, insurance costs, tenant demand and resale depth before committing. For the right borrower, though, quality regional new housing can strike a good balance between affordability, cash flow and long-term growth.

The Finance Strategy Matters More Than Ever

In this new environment, the way you structure your finances isn’t an afterthought. It can be the difference between an investment that quietly does its job and one that keeps you up at night.

Before buying, it’s worth getting clear on a few things: how much you can borrow, how the new repayments will sit against your household cash flow, whether to draw on the equity in your home, whether the loan should be interest-only or principal and interest, whether an offset account makes sense, and how big a buffer you need if rates or vacancies move against you. The most important question of all is whether you could hold the property without relying on the tax outcome.

This is where a good mortgage broker earns their keep. Start by getting a realistic number: our mortgage repayment calculator shows roughly what a loan might cost each month, and if you’re weighing up an offset account, the offset calculator shows how your everyday savings could cut the interest you pay.

From there, the structure questions get more specific:

• Many investors fund a purchase by using the equity in their home rather than putting down cash.
• If your current loan isn’t pulling its weight, refinancing before you take on more debt can free up borrowing power.
• Buying through your super fund is a different path again, and SMSF lending comes with its own rules and a shorter lender list.

Our job at Go Mortgage is to help you compare lender policies, structure an investment loan properly, and make sure you understand what a contract means for your finances before you sign it.

A New Build Isn’t Automatically a Low-Risk Build

It’s worth being honest here. New builds can be attractive, but they come with their own risks. Construction delays can push out your settlement date. Valuations sometimes land below the contract price. Rental estimates can be optimistic. And builder quality varies more than the glossy brochures suggest.

That’s why tax treatment shouldn’t be the reason you buy. Tax can help a deal; it shouldn’t be the deal. The fundamentals still decide the outcome: location, scarcity, tenant demand, cash flow, build quality and whether you can comfortably hold the property for the long haul.

If you’re buying a new build before your existing home has sold, it’s also worth understanding how a bridging loan works, so a delayed settlement doesn’t catch you short.

So, Should You Invest After the 2026 Budget?

For a lot of Australians, the answer is still yes, just with a sharper filter.

The Budget hasn’t removed the case for property investment. It’s changed where the incentives sit. The themes that stand out now are new housing supply, townhouses and medium-density homes, quality new builds in growth corridors, well-located South East Queensland property, sensibly priced regional Queensland opportunities and smarter loan structuring.

The investors likely to do best aren’t the ones chasing the cheapest property or the biggest deduction. They’re the ones buying quality assets they can afford to hold.

Our View

We’re optimistic, for a simple reason: Australia still needs more homes. Population growth keeps supporting demand, and supply remains hard to deliver. For the right borrower, with the right advice and a sound finance structure, property investment is still one of the more reliable ways to build wealth over time. It just has to be done properly.

Before you sign a contract, talk to your accountant about the tax and talk to a mortgage broker about the finance. At Go Mortgage we can help you work out your borrowing capacity, review your equity position, compare investment loan options and structure your finance so you can make a more informed decision.

If you’re thinking about investing after the 2026 Budget, it’s a good time to review your options. Book a discovery meeting with our Gold Coast mortgage broking team and let’s look at what’s possible.

FAQ

Bought your dream home before selling your current one? Bridging loans can help you move forward without the stress of timing two property settlements perfectly. These short-term finance solutions let Gold Coast property buyers secure their next home while their current property is still on the market.

Key Insights

• What is a bridging loan? A short-term loan that “bridges” the gap between buying a new property and selling your existing one
• Typical term: 6 to 12 months (sometimes up to 24 months)
• How it works: You borrow against the equity in your current home to fund the deposit and costs for your new property
• Best for: Buyers who’ve found their ideal property but haven’t sold their current home yet
• Key benefit: Avoid missing out on your dream home due to settlement timing

What is a Bridging Loan?

A bridging loan is a short-term finance solution that lets you purchase a new property before you’ve sold your existing one. Think of it as temporary funding that covers the period between buying and selling – typically 6 to 12 months.

Say you’re living in Burleigh Heads and you’ve found the perfect upgrade in Mermaid Beach. The owners will only accept your offer if it comes with a quick settlement — but your current home won’t settle for another three months. Short-term bridging loans enable you to purchase the Mermaid Beach property now, utilising the equity in your Burleigh home as security.

How Does a Bridging Loan Work?

When you’re approved for bridging finance, you’re essentially carrying two mortgages for a short period. Your lender calculates how much you can borrow based on the combined value of both properties, minus what you owe on your current mortgage.

The process typically unfolds like this:

1. You apply for bridging finance through a mortgage broker on the Gold Coast who can assess your equity position
2. The lender values both your current and intended properties
3. You’re approved for an amount that covers the new property purchase
4. You settle on your new home using the bridging loan
5. When your original property sells, you pay off the bridging loan

Most lenders let you make interest-only payments during the bridging period, or they’ll capitalise the interest (add it to the loan amount). This keeps your monthly costs manageable while you’re juggling two properties.

When are Bridging Loans a Smart Choice?

Bridging loans work brilliantly in specific situations. They’re ideal when you’ve found a property you love in a competitive market – especially on the Gold Coast where good properties move quickly. They’re also useful for property investors who need to act fast on an opportunity.

However, bridging finance isn’t cheap. You’ll typically pay higher interest rates than a standard home loan, plus additional fees for two property valuations and legal costs. That’s why it’s worth speaking with experienced mortgage brokers who specialise in refinancing to explore whether this option suits your circumstances.

Is a Bridging Loan Right for You?

The key question is whether your current property will sell within the loan term. If you’re in a strong market with good buyer demand, bridging loans can help you avoid the rental hassle or storage costs of moving twice. But if your property might take longer to sell, or if you’re stretching your budget, it could add unnecessary financial pressure.

Before committing, factor in all costs: higher interest rates, valuation fees, legal expenses, and the stress of managing two properties. An experienced mortgage broker can run the numbers with you and suggest alternatives like getting a second mortgage or adjusting your timeline.

Get Expert Bridging Loan Advice on the Gold Coast

Bridging loans explained: they’re powerful financial tools when used correctly, but they require careful planning and expert guidance. Whether you’re a first home buyer upgrading or an investor expanding your portfolio, understanding your options is essential.

At GOMC, we help Gold Coast property buyers navigate short-term bridging loans and alternative finance solutions every day. We’ll assess your equity position, compare lender options, and structure a solution that protects your financial interests.

Ready to discuss whether bridging finance suits your situation? Get in touch with our team for a no-obligation chat about your property goals.

The Help to Buy scheme QLD is a federal government initiative designed to help eligible first home buyers get into the property market sooner with a smaller deposit. If you’ve been struggling to save a 20% deposit while watching Gold Coast property prices climb, this scheme could be your pathway to homeownership in 2025.

Here’s what makes the 2025 Help to Buy scheme different from other first home buyer programs: the Australian Government becomes a co-investor in your property by contributing up to 40% of the purchase price for a new home (or 30% for an existing home). This means you could buy a property with as little as a 2% deposit, without paying lenders’ mortgage insurance or going into debt with the government’s share.

Key Takeaways

• The Help to Buy scheme QLD allows eligible first home buyers to purchase property with a deposit as low as 2%
• The government contributes up to 40% equity in new homes or 30% in existing homes
• You don’t pay rent or interest on the government’s share
• Available for properties up to $700,000 on the Gold Coast (regional Queensland price cap)
• You can buy out the government’s share anytime or when you sell

Who’s Eligible for the Help to Buy Scheme QLD?

Understanding the Help to Buy scheme QLD eligibility is crucial before jumping straight in. To qualify, you need to be:

• An Australian citizen aged 18 or over
• A first home buyer (or someone who has not owned property in the past 10 years)
• Earning under $90,000 as a single applicant or $120,000 combined for couples
• Planning to live in the property as your primary residence for at least 12 months

You’ll also need to use a participating lender (most major banks are involved) and buy within the property price caps. For regional Queensland (which includes the Gold Coast), the maximum property price is $700,000. That gives you decent options across suburbs like Coomera, Ormeau, and Upper Coomera, where you can still find quality homes under this threshold.

The catch? Only 10,000 places are available nationally each financial year, and they’re allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Queensland gets around 2,000 spots annually, which usually go to first-home buyers. You can’t use this scheme for getting a second mortgage.

How Does the Help to Buy Scheme QLD Application Process Work?

The Help to Buy scheme QLD application process isn’t as complicated as you might think, but timing matters. Here’s how it works:

First, you’ll need to get pre-approval from a participating lender, just like any standard home loan. Your mortgage broker first home buyer specialist can help navigate this step and ensure you’re presenting the strongest application possible.

Once pre-approved, your lender nominates you to the government’s National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC). If there are available places and you meet all the Help to Buy scheme QLD eligibility criteria, you’ll receive an approval certificate within 10 business days.

You then have 90 days to find and purchase your property. Your lender handles the settlement process, including the government’s equity contribution.

What Happens to the Government’s Share?

You might be wondering: what is the Help to Buy scheme going to cost you down the track? The good news is there’s no interest or rent charged on the government’s equity share. You only contribute to loan repayments on your portion of the property.

When you eventually sell the property, the government receives their percentage share of the sale price. For example, if they contributed 30% and your property increased in value from $600,000 to $800,000, they’d receive 30% of the $800,000 ($240,000).

You can also buy out the government’s share at any time. Many homeowners plan to do this after a few years, once they’ve built more equity or their income has increased. A refinance mortgage broker can help you structure this buyout when you’re ready.

Is the Help to Buy Scheme QLD Right for You?

The Help to Buy scheme QLD works brilliantly for first home buyers who:

• Have a stable income but struggle to save a large deposit
• Want to enter the market now rather than watching prices rise while saving
• Plan to stay in the property medium to long-term
• Are comfortable with the government holding equity in their home

It’s less ideal if you’re planning to quickly renovate and sell, or if you want complete ownership from day one.

Get Expert Help With Your Help to Buy Application

Navigating the Help to Buy scheme 2025 requirements and application process is much easier with an experienced Gold Coast mortgage broker on your side. At Gold Coast Mortgage Centre, we’ve helped dozens of first-home buyers successfully apply for government assistance schemes.

We’ll assess your Help to Buy scheme QLD eligibility, compare it against other first home buyer options like the First Home Guarantee, and ensure your application is lodged correctly. Given the limited places available each year, you can’t afford to waste time on rejected applications.

Aren’t eligible for the Help to Buy scheme but looking for an affordable way to manage your property or investments?

We’re also experienced refinance mortgage brokers and self-managed super fund accountants.

Here’s a question we hear constantly from first-time buyers on the Gold Coast: “Can I get a home loan without a deposit?” The short answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as walking into a bank and asking for one.

While a traditional 20% deposit is ideal, several “rent-to-buy no deposit home” loans and low-deposit options exist that can get you into the property market sooner than you think. The catch? You’ll need to meet specific criteria, and you’ll likely pay more in fees and interest.

Let’s break down exactly how no deposit home loans work, what your real options are, and whether this path makes sense for your situation.

Quick Answer

• Yes, you can get a home loan with no deposit, or little deposit, but most options require a family guarantee, government assistance, or higher costs through Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)
• Rent-to-buy no deposit home loans schemes let you build equity whilst renting, with rent payments contributing toward the purchase price
• Government schemes like the First Home Guarantee allow eligible buyers to purchase with as little as 5% deposit (not zero, but close)
• Family guarantee loans use a family member’s property equity instead of cash deposit
• Expect higher costs: LMI can add $10,000-$30,000+ to loans under 20% deposit, and interest rates may be higher

Can You Really Get a Home Loan Without a Deposit?

Technically, 0 deposit home loans do exist in Australia, but they’re not handed out freely. Lenders see no-deposit borrowers as higher risk because you have no financial skin in the game if property values drop. That said, if you’ve got stable employment, good credit, and ideally some form of security (like a family guarantee), you’ve got genuine options.

The most common pathway to a no deposit mortgage is through a family guarantee loan, where a parent or close relative uses equity in their property as security for your loan. This means you can borrow 100% (or even up to 105% to cover costs) without needing a cash deposit. The lender feels secure because they’ve got two properties backing the loan – yours and your guarantor’s.

Another increasingly popular option is rent-to-buy no deposit home loans, where you essentially rent a property with an agreement to purchase it later. A portion of your rent payments goes toward building equity in the property, which then becomes your deposit when you’re ready to buy. These schemes work well for buyers who can afford rent but struggle to save whilst paying market rent rates. They are more useful for first-home buyers, rather than those looking at getting a second mortgage.

Your Options for a Home Loan With No Deposit

If you’re serious about getting a home loan with no deposit on the Gold Coast, here are the realistic pathways:

Family Guarantee Loans

This is when parents or a close family member uses 10-20% of their property’s equity to guarantee your loan. You can borrow up to 100-105% of the property value, avoiding both a cash deposit AND Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

Once you’ve built around 20% equity (through repayments and property growth), the guarantee can be removed. This is the cleanest way to enter the market with zero upfront cash.

First Home Guarantee Scheme

Whilst not technically a 0 deposit home loan, the government-backed First Home Guarantee lets eligible first home buyers purchase with just a 5% deposit and no LMI. You’ll need to be an Australian citizen, earn under $125,000 as a single or $200,000 as a couple, and buy a property under the regional price cap ($800,000 for the Gold Coast in 2024-25). That means you’d need $40,000 for an $800,000 property – not nothing, but far more achievable than $160,000.

Rent-to-Buy No Deposit Home Loans

These schemes (sometimes called “rent-to-own” or “lease purchase”) let you move into a property as a tenant with the option to buy it later. Part of your rent (typically 10-25%) is credited toward the purchase price, building your deposit over 1-3 years.

You’ll usually sign a purchase contract upfront with a locked-in price, which protects you if property values rise. The downside? You’re locked into one property, and if you can’t secure finance when the purchase date arrives, you may lose your rental credits.

Lender Equity Schemes (Limited Availability)

A handful of lenders and state government programs offer shared equity schemes, where the lender or government buys a stake in your property (typically 10-40%) in exchange for you needing less deposit. You’ll own the rest, live in the property, and eventually buy out their share. Availability is limited and usually restricted to first home buyers under income caps.

What You Need to Know About 0 Deposit Home Loans

Before you jump at a no deposit mortgage, understand the trade-offs:

Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) Costs

If you’re borrowing more than 80% of the property’s value without a family guarantee, you’ll pay LMI – a one-off insurance premium that protects the lender if you default. LMI on a 95% loan can cost $15,000-$30,000 for a $600,000 Gold Coast property. On a 100% loan? Even higher. This cost is usually capitalised into your loan, meaning you’re paying interest on it for 30 years. A family guarantee bypasses LMI entirely, which is why it’s the preferred option if available.

Higher Interest Rates

Lenders charge higher rates on high loan-to-value ratio (LVR) loans because the risk is greater. You might pay 0.25-0.50% more on a 95% LVR loan compared to an 80% LVR loan. Over 30 years, that can cost you tens of thousands in extra interest. Working with an experienced mortgage broker on the Gold Coast helps you find lenders offering competitive rates for low-deposit scenarios.

Tougher Eligibility Criteria

Lenders scrutinise home loan with no deposit applications closely. You’ll need:

• Proven savings history (yes, even if you’re using a guarantor – lenders want to see you can manage money)
• Stable employment (usually 6-12 months in current job, or longer if self-employed)
• Clean credit history (no defaults, minimal credit card debt)
• Strong income-to-debt ratio (your repayments shouldn’t exceed 30-35% of your income)

If you’re a first home buyer, your mortgage broker can help you present your application in the strongest light possible, including evidence of genuine savings or rent payment history.

Property Valuation Risk

When you put down zero deposit, you’re starting with zero equity. If Gold Coast property values drop 5-10% shortly after you buy, you could end up owing more than your property is worth (negative equity). This becomes a problem if you need to sell or refinance before you’ve paid down enough principal. It’s not a disaster if you can hold long-term, but it’s a risk worth understanding upfront.

Is a No Deposit Mortgage Right for You?

A no deposit mortgage makes sense if:

• You’ve got a family member willing and able to act as guarantor
• You’re renting and paying enough that homeownership repayments would be similar or less
• Gold Coast property prices are rising, and you’re worried about being priced out
• You’re confident in your job security and income growth
• You’re planning to hold the property long-term (5+ years minimum)

It’s probably NOT the right move if:

• You’re stretching to afford repayments even without a deposit
• Your job situation is unstable, or you’re self-employed without a consistent income
• You haven’t demonstrated any savings discipline (lenders will notice)
• You’re buying purely as a short-term investment property flip

Get Expert Help To Navigate No Deposit Home Loan Options

The path to homeownership doesn’t always require a massive deposit sitting in your savings account. With the right strategy, the right lender, and expert guidance, you can get into the Gold Coast property market sooner than you thought possible and start building equity instead of paying someone else’s mortgage.

Our team of mortgage brokers on the Gold Coast specialise in finding the right lending solutions for first home buyers, refinancers, and investors, even when your deposit isn’t the traditional 20%. We’ll assess your situation, compare lenders who offer low and no deposit products, and structure your application to maximise approval chances.

Whether you’re exploring rent-to-buy no deposit home loans, family guarantees, or government schemes, we’ll walk you through every option available to you.

Lots of new buyers don’t understand that a pre-approval is a powerful asset when home-hunting.

They should though as a pre approval is free, it lasts at least three months and gives you a clear guide on borrowing capacity. Plus if you do find a property you like, a pre-approval puts you in a position to make an offer.

So, how do you get your pre-approval this month? Easily. just reach out and the process will begin.

One of the first questions a Real Estate agent will probably ask you is ‘Are you pre-approved?’

So get in front of the pack – the most beneficial first step for you as a buyer today is be “Pre-approved’.
You don’t need to have selected a property just yet, or even a suburb. You just need to have a price guide in mind and know be committed to buy in the next few months.

Lets’ get you pre-approved… Let’s Go!

It is a fact that over 74% of residential home loans are written by a broker. Why? We know it’s about the customer service! Customer service is not a buzz word – it’s the foundation of trust, loyalty, and long-term client relationships. At Go Mortgage, we’re proud to have been recognised for our dedication to exceptional 5-star service, taking out the Better Business Customer Service Award 2025, becoming a finalist in the MFAA Business Customer Service Award announced later in 2025, and reaching over 400 five-star Google reviews. And we want to keep this award-winning recognition going.

But what does award-winning customer service actually look like in the mortgage industry? We’ve broken it down into five, 5-star steps.

1 – Proactive Communication, Every Step of the Way

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, no one likes being left in the dark during one of the biggest financial decisions of their life. At Go Mortgage, we keep our clients informed from pre-approval to settlement and beyond.

Timely updates, clear explanations, and a personal point of contact ensure every client feels supported and understood.

2- Personalised Advice, Not a One-Size-Fits-All Approach

We don’t do cookie-cutter loans. Our team takes the time to understand each client’s goals, circumstances, and future plans to tailor the right finance solution. Whether it’s your first home, refinancing, having an SMSF strategy, or building your investment portfolio, we customise your loan journey to suit you.

3- Speed and Efficiency Without Cutting Corners

We know time is of the essence, especially in competitive markets. Our tech-driven processes, paired with experienced brokers, allow us to deliver fast, accurate service without compromising on quality or care.

4- Support Long After Settlement

Customer service doesn’t stop once your loan is approved. We continue to support our clients with reviews, refinancing advice, and market insights to ensure their mortgage always works in their favour. You are part of the Go Mortgage family.

Our ongoing communication and annual reviews are a key reason why so many of our clients return and refer their friends and family.

5- A Culture That Prioritises People

Behind the scenes, our culture is what drives our service. Our team is empowered to go the extra mile, and we genuinely care about making a difference in people’s lives. This is reflected in every email, phone call, and loan settlement.

The Results Speak for Themselves

Winner: Better Business Awards – Customer Service 2025
Finalist: MFAA Excellence Awards – Business Customer Service 2025
️400+ Five-Star Google Reviews and Counting

Looking for Award-Winning Mortgage Support?

If you’re ready to experience the kind of customer service that wins awards and earns rave reviews, get in touch with the team at Go Mortgage. We’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions every step of the way.

Contact us today and let’s get started.

What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

Our clients’ satisfaction is the true measure of our success. Here are some of their experiences:

• First Home Buyer Success:
  ‘The Go Mortgage team were amazing with helping us buy our dream first home. Every hoop and step was sorted quickly, and their communication was excellent.’
• Exceptional Service:
  Superb! Dedicated, quick and all over it. Xavier and his team were excellent from start to finish. Every time I picked up the phone I spoke to someone who was all over the details for my application. Super quick processing time. Really friendly and helpful staff who were able to answer any questions I had. From Elyssa H
• Professional and Personal Experience:
  ‘Again, a professional and personal experience that we could not thank Xavier and his Team at Go Mortgage enough for in his guidance with our…’

Call 1300 855 244 or book your free consultation with one of our experienced brokers today.

Your journey to homeownership starts with the right mortgage broker for your mortgage needs.

Buying property with your SMSF is a strategy that appeals to many Australians who want to take control of their retirement investments. Self-managed super funds (SMSF) can be used to purchase both residential and commercial property, provided the investment complies with Australian Taxation Office (ATO) rules. It’s a detailed process that requires careful planning, but it can deliver long-term benefits. It is actually recognised as the most tax-effective way to purchase property since the federal budget proposal in 2026.

Can You Buy Property with Your SMSF?

Yes, your SMSF can invest in property. This includes using existing funds or setting up a limited recourse borrowing arrangement (LRBA), which allows the fund to borrow under strict conditions.

For residential property, it must be purchased from an unrelated third party and cannot be used by you or anyone related to you. Commercial properties have more flexibility and may be leased to a related party, such as your own business, so long as it is on commercial terms.

How Much Money Do I Need in My SMSF to Buy Property?

One of the most common questions is: How much money do I need in my SMSF to buy property? While there’s no legal minimum, many lenders suggest having at least $150,000 to $200,000 in your fund. This ensures you can cover the deposit, fees, legal costs, and ongoing expenses while maintaining diversification across other asset classes.

If you’re borrowing through your SMSF, a deposit of 20% to 30% is usually required. The fund also needs to meet repayment obligations from within the SMSF itself. You can’t rely on future contributions to make it work.

Is It Worth Buying Property with Super?

So, is it worth buying property with super? It can be, but it depends on your goals, the makeup of your fund, and your long-term investment strategy.

Benefits include:

• Tax advantages: Rental income is taxed at 15% during the accumulation phase and 0% in the pension phase. Negative gearing applies to both new AND existing properties. Capital gains discount applies to properties held for more than 12 months, which are taxed at a reduced rate – 10% before retirement and 0% in pension phase.
• Greater control: You choose the property, manage the investment, and have direct involvement in its performance.
• Business premises: If you’re self-employed, your SMSF can purchase your commercial premises. Rent paid by your business goes into your super fund and can be tax-deductible.
• Potential for capital growth: Property is a long-term investment that can support your retirement planning.

Key Considerations Before Buying

Like any strategy, there are risks and limitations to buying property with an SMSF.

• No personal use: Residential property purchased through your SMSF cannot be used by you, your family, or any related party.
• Liquidity risk: Property is not easily sold. Your fund still needs to cover other expenses like insurance, rates, and pension payments.
• No future borrowing: If you buy the property outright, you cannot borrow against it later. Borrowing must occur at the time of purchase.
• Renovation restrictions: Borrowed funds can’t be used to improve or develop the property. Only repairs and maintenance are allowed.

When Buying Property with SMSF Might Work for You

This strategy could suit you if:

• Your SMSF has a strong balance and meets the suggested minimum
• You’re planning for long-term capital growth
• You have clear investment goals and a compliant strategy
• You’ve consulted an SMSF specialist or broker

Is Buying Property with SMSF the Right Move?

Buying property with SMSF funds can offer control, potential tax benefits, and a clear path to growing retirement savings. However, it also comes with strict rules, responsibilities, and risks.

Make sure you fully understand the setup, costs, and limitations involved. If you’re exploring this strategy, talk to a mortgage broker who understands SMSF lending and can help you stay compliant while working towards your retirement goals.

Speak with Go Mortgage today for expert guidance and support tailored to your financial future.