[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Transferring a commercial property into an SMSF can be a great way to build retirement savings and take advantage of the tax concessions available to SMSFs. But when acquiring property from a related party, it’s vital the property meets the “business real property” test. Make sure you know the essential elements of this test when exploring this strategy.
Holding property in an SMSF can certainly have tax benefits. The rental income and capital gains are concessionally taxed, or even tax exempt to the extent the property supports retirement phase pensions. So, if you run a business and own your business premises, or are simply an investor with a commercial property, you may have thought about transferring the property into your SMSF.
The general rule is that SMSFs aren’t permitted to acquire assets from a related party of the fund (which includes the members, their relatives and related trusts and companies). However, there are a few limited exceptions, including “business real property” (BRP) acquired by the SMSF at market value. This is the only type of real estate that an SMSF may acquire from a related party.
What is BRP?
BRP is property used “wholly and exclusively” in one or more businesses. The ATO says this generally means the entire area of the property must be used in business, and there should be no non-business use (eg personal use), unless it’s a very minor or insignificant non-business use.
It doesn’t matter who is conducting the business. Whether it’s the property owners (eg the SMSF members or their related trust or company) who run the business, or an unrelated third party who rents the premises for their business, the property can still qualify as BRP.[/vc_column_text][mk_blockquote font_family=”none”]Classic examples of BRP include a shop where a retail business is conducted, a factory where a manufacturing business is operated and office space leased solely to business tenants. Farms can also potentially qualify if they are used in a primary production business.[/mk_blockquote][vc_column_text]There are many other types of property that are not so straightforward. The ATO provides the following examples of property that would not be BRP:
- In many cases, residential rental premises. Many typical “Mum and Dad” investment property owners simply derive passive rental income and don’t carry on a business. In contrast, if someone owns and rents out residential property as part of a large-scale property investment business, the land would potentially qualify as BRP.
- Similarly, many holiday rental properties where the owners are passive investors who don’t run a holiday accommodation letting business, even if they hire a managing agent.
- Mixed-use properties where there is business use but also non-business use that is more than minor. The ATO lists examples of mixed-use properties that would not be BRP such as a mechanic business run from a home garage.
Other considerations
There are a number of other issues that need to be taken into account when transferring BRP into an SMSF, eg ensuring the property is acquired at market value; being aware of any capital gains tax (CGT) and stamp duty liabilities when you transfer the property; and checking whether you qualify for any small business CGT concessions.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
