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Self-managed super funds - SMSF - have become a popular way for Australians to build their retirement savings.

In fact they’re now the fastest growing segment of the superannuation market, with over one million of us now counted as members of an SMSF.

Those members collectively hold more than 1/2  billion dollars in superannuation assets, approximately 16% of which is invested in direct commercial and residential property.

Property, along with Australian shares (32%) and cash and term deposits (28%), make up the bulk of Australian SMSF assets.

The tax law does not allow you to ‘flip’ a property tax-free even if you are living in it.

Most people think they can move into a property, renovate it, and then sell it without paying tax. The main residence exemption – the exemption protecting your family home from tax – does not apply if your primary purpose is to ‘flip’ the property for a profit. The fact you are living in the property does not mean it’s exempt from tax.

Whether you’re hoping to buy a home this year or are tired of wondering where your pay packet goes, budget planning can help you out.

With these handy steps you’ll be able to work out where your money is going and save some extra dollars for a rainy day.

Many customers looking to purchase a boat are faced with a dilemma:  Do I take out a separate loan secured by the boat or should I simply add it to my home loan?

There is no right or wrong answer as there are several variables that come into play.  Is the boat new or used?  Is it from a dealer or from a private sale?  What type of boat is it?  And of course, how much would you need to borrow?