So Money expands SMSF offerings for resi and commercial

Mortgage manager broadens SMSF lending options as broker demand for the sector accelerates

So Money expands SMSF offerings for resi and commercial

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So Money has refreshed its self-managed super fund (SMSF) lending suite, introducing residential lending available up to 90% LVR and a flexible commercial program — a move designed to provide brokers with additional options for SMSF transactions that have historically been constrained by conservative policy settings and higher upfront capital requirements.

The update arrives during a period of significant change for the sector. Division 296, which is expected to impose additional tax on certain superannuation earnings attributable to individuals with total superannuation balances above $3 million, is scheduled to take effect from 1 July 2026, and the ATO has indicated an increased focus on SMSF compliance activities during 2026. These developments are described for general context only and do not constitute tax or financial advice.

Against that backdrop, SMSF lending activity remains active, and brokers are increasingly seeking lenders with the policy flexibility and specialist support to assist with these transactions.

Residential SMSF lending available up to 90% LVR

A key enhancement is the introduction of residential SMSF lending available up to 90% LVR, subject to credit assessment, eligibility requirements and lending criteria.

Key features of the residential program include:

  • Maximum exposure of $4 million, with loan amounts up to $3 million (Category 1) and up to $1.5 million (Category 2)
  • Fast Refi option for eligible clients refinancing to a lower rate, subject to lending criteria
  • Express Lease Doc servicing based on rental income assessment
  • Access to a 100% offset account, where available under the applicable product
  • Income from surplus funds available post-settlement
  • Specific pricing available for Category 3 and 4 postcodes

Vivid SMSF commercial program

So Money’s Vivid SMSF Commercial offering is designed to provide flexibility across a broad range of commercial security types and transaction scenarios.

Highlights include:

  • Maximum exposure of $4 million, with loan amounts up to $3.5 million at 80% LVR on a single security
  • A wide range of commercial security types considered, subject to policy guidelines
  • Lease-back arrangements may be considered where permitted under applicable SMSF and lending requirements
  • Access to a 100% offset account, where available under the applicable product
  • Income from surplus funds available post-settlement

Across both programs, So Money has refined its servicing requirements to support a more straightforward assessment process in eligible scenarios, subject to credit assessment and lending criteria.

Why the SMSF market is gaining momentum

So Money founder Zachary Su said activity in the sector reflects a combination of policy change and growing broker interest rather than any single driver.

“There’s a lot happening in superannuation right now, and that naturally generates questions and activity across the market,” said Su.

“What we’re focused on is the lending side of that — ensuring that suitable SMSF scenarios can be assessed under a practical policy framework.”

Su said much of the demand comes from brokers looking for lenders that specialise in SMSF lending.

“SMSF has a reputation for being complex and document-heavy, and that’s exactly where a specialist mortgage manager can add value. Historically, brokers have often encountered conservative LVR caps and limited product flexibility. By offering residential lending up to 90% LVR and broadening our commercial policy, we’re helping reduce friction at some of the points where these transactions most commonly slow down.”

He added that the practical side of SMSF lending is where experience makes a difference.

"SMSF transactions involve more documentation than standard lending. A lender familiar with the SMSF environment, working alongside a broker who knows how to package the application, can help the process run more smoothly.”

Why it matters for brokers

By widening available LVR options and enhancing product flexibility, So Money aims to provide brokers with additional options when assisting SMSF clients.

For brokers, the combination of higher LVR options and flexible servicing pathways may broaden the range of SMSF scenarios that can be explored with clients, subject to assessment and approval.

Brokers interested in the updated SMSF range can contact the So Money team to discuss scenarios and accreditation.

 

Important Information:

Product features, policy settings and pricing are current as at the date of publication and may change without notice. This communication is intended for licensed mortgage brokers and finance professionals and is general information only. It is not financial, taxation, legal or credit advice, and does not take into account any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Lending is subject to credit assessment, eligibility criteria and approval. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Loan amounts, LVRs and product features described are maximum or indicative positions, are subject to lending criteria, and may not be available in all circumstances. SMSF lending may not be suitable for all borrowers. Trustees and borrowers should obtain independent financial, legal and taxation advice before entering into any SMSF borrowing arrangement. Information regarding Division 296 and ATO activity is provided for general context only and is current as at the date of publication. Readers should refer to the ATO and their own advisers for current information and advice.

Issued by Lingqing Capital Pty Ltd trading as So Money (ACL 504917).

 

This article was produced in partnership with So Money

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