How an SMSF Mortgage Broker Structures Your Loan
As a specialist SMSF mortgage broker, Tiger Mortgage guides you through every step of the SMSF loan process — from initial eligibility assessment through to settlement and long-term compliance. We often hear the same thing from new clients: ‘My last broker just didn’t get it.’ That’s no surprise. SMSF loans are complex — limited recourse borrowing, separate trustee structures, ATO compliance, lender policy variations. Our job is to simplify all of it.
Tiger Mortgage’s founder, Raymond Liao, is a CPA-qualified mortgage broker and former banker — one of a small number of brokers in Australia who holds an accounting qualification alongside a full credit licence. That background matters for SMSF lending, where the structure of your loan can have significant long-term implications for your fund’s compliance and performance. Raymond has been ranked in Australia’s Top 100 brokers by The Adviser and holds multiple industry awards.
Smart SMSF Lending Starts with the Right Structure
Getting the structure of an SMSF loan right from the start is essential. A limited recourse borrowing arrangement (LRBA) involves your SMSF, a bare trustee, a custodian, and a lender — all with specific requirements under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act. We work through each element carefully, in coordination with your accountant and financial adviser, to ensure the structure is compliant and serves your fund’s long-term investment objectives.
As your SMSF mortgage broker, we ensure the structure works now and into the future, so your retirement strategy isn’t compromised by a lending decision made today.
Your SMSF Mortgage Broker for the Long Haul — Not Just One Loan
SMSF property investment is a long-term strategy. We don’t just settle the loan and disappear — we remain available as your fund grows, properties are added or refinanced, and your circumstances change. Our goal is to be your SMSF lending partner across the life of your fund.
SMSF Loan FAQs — Your Questions Answered
How does SMSF lending work?
SMSFs borrow using a limited recourse structure, meaning the lender can only claim against the property—not your other super assets. The property is held in a separate trust until the loan is repaid, keeping the arrangement compliant with super laws.
How much can my SMSF borrow?
Most lenders allow SMSFs to borrow up to 70–80% of a property’s value, depending on the asset type and your fund’s financial position.
Can I buy a property from myself or a related party?
Generally, no—unless it’s a commercial property that meets the “business real property” definition, and the transaction occurs at market value. We are always open to working with your accountant to make sure the purchase meets all ATO requirements.
Will all lenders consider SMSF loans?
No, only select lenders offer SMSF loan products, and their policies can vary. We know which lenders are active in this space and which ones will suit your SMSF’s needs and long-term goals.
Do I need a financial adviser or accountant involved?
What does an SMSF mortgage broker do?
An SMSF mortgage broker specialises in structuring and arranging loans for self-managed superannuation funds to purchase property — either residential or commercial. Unlike a standard mortgage broker, an SMSF specialist needs to understand the ATO’s limited recourse borrowing arrangement (LRBA) rules, trustee requirements, lender SMSF policies, and how the loan integrates with your fund’s broader investment strategy. At Tiger Mortgage, Raymond Liao’s CPA background means he approaches SMSF lending from both a finance and accounting perspective — giving you an edge that generalist brokers simply can’t offer.
How do I find a good SMSF mortgage broker in Sydney?
Look for three things: accounting or finance qualifications (not just a credit licence), direct experience with SMSF lenders rather than just general residential lenders, and a willingness to coordinate with your financial adviser and accountant. Tiger Mortgage is based in Chatswood, Sydney, and assists SMSF borrowers across Sydney and nationally. Raymond Liao holds CPA qualifications alongside his full Australian Credit Licence, and has structured SMSF loans for business owners, investors, and medical professionals across residential and commercial property.
Can an SMSF mortgage broker help with both residential and commercial property?
Yes. SMSF loans can be used for both residential investment properties and commercial properties — including business owners purchasing their own business premises through their SMSF. Commercial SMSF loans typically have different LVR limits and lender policies compared to residential. Tiger Mortgage assists with both, and Raymond regularly helps business owners and medical professionals structure clinic and commercial property purchases through SMSF structures. (All SMSF lending is subject to lender policy, trustee requirements, and ATO compliance rules. Seek independent legal and financial advice before proceeding.)
Is SMSF property investment right for my fund?
This depends entirely on your fund’s investment strategy, balance, cashflow, and long-term retirement goals. Borrowing to purchase property through an SMSF is a significant decision with compliance implications. We strongly recommend speaking with your financial adviser and accountant alongside your mortgage broker before proceeding. Tiger Mortgage can help you understand the lending landscape — your advisers will help you determine whether this aligns with your fund’s strategy.
Buying or investing through an SMSF loan?
With the right SMSF broker, your goals are closer than you think.
Tiger Mortgage operates as an SMSF mortgage broker across Sydney and nationally — including Chatswood, St Leonards, Ryde, Hornsby, Norwest, Parramatta, Penrith, Strathfield and the Gold Coast. We work with SMSF borrowers in every state, and our Robina Town Centre office services SMSF clients across the Gold Coast and Brisbane corridor. If you’re outside Sydney or Queensland, we handle all consultations remotely.