Taking Control of Super Before Retirement

How a Couple in Their 50s Transformed Their Retirement Outlook with an SMSF

Client Background

This couple, both in their mid-50s, had been steadily contributing to their industry super funds for decades. Yet, with retirement on the horizon, unease was setting in.

They wanted:

More control over their superannuation
Greater transparency about costs and investments
Confidence that their super was truly working for their retirement goals

Maven Advisors Expertise and experience with SMSF guidance and advice

The Challenge

Like many pre-retirees, they faced common frustrations:

Low confidence in returns from their industry funds
Distrust of large super funds, particularly around hidden fees and government influence on investment decisions
Lack of transparency — they couldn’t clearly see where their money was going
Concern about retirement readiness, fearing they hadn’t saved enough

The Solution

Here at Maven Advisors, we designed a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) strategy that put them firmly in control of their future:

Tailored SMSF Setup

Their existing balances were rolled into an SMSF, giving them a clear, customised investment strategy aligned with their retirement goals.

Property Investment with Borrowing

Using a limited recourse borrowing arrangement (LRBA), their SMSF purchased an investment property, while preserving enough cash for other investments.

Diversified Portfolio

The SMSF was balanced with property, shares, and cash to create growth, income, and liquidity, ensuring they weren’t overly reliant on one asset.

Compliance & Ongoing Support

We implemented robust compliance and reporting systems, ensuring obligations were met without overwhelming them, with ongoing support every step of the way.

Estate Planning Integration

Working with legal professionals, we set up binding death benefit nominations, protecting each spouse and ensuring assets remained within super for long-term family security.

Implementation Process

Assessment: Reviewed super balances and goals to confirm an SMSF was the right choice
Structuring: Designed the LRBA property purchase without over-concentrating funds
Diversification: Balanced shares, cash, and property to safeguard returns
Compliance: Established reporting systems for peace of mind
Estate Planning: Structured death benefit nominations to ensure seamless succession

Results & Outcomes

They now had a clear view of all costs, unlike their previous industry fund.
Their SMSF gave them direct control over investment choices.
The property provided capital growth potential, while dividends and interest added reliable income streams.
They gained peace of mind knowing their strategy was flexible enough to adapt over time, and that their estate planning was properly structured.

Client Reflections

“We always felt in the dark with our old super funds. Now we can see exactly where our money is, and we know why each decision is being made. Tania gave us the confidence to step into an SMSF and the support to manage it properly. It feels like we’ve taken back control of our future.”

Lessons & Insights

SMSFs can be powerful for couples who want more than “set and forget” super.
Borrowing within an SMSF allows property investment while keeping cash available for diversification.
Good planning ensures not just growth, but a smoother, safer retirement transition.

FAQs

How much do we need to start an SMSF?

ASIC suggests around $500,000, but disciplined couples with $200,000+ can succeed with the right strategy. The key is having clear goals.

Can we buy property through our SMSF?

Yes. With limited recourse borrowing, you can purchase property while keeping cash available for other investments.

Will property rent alone be enough for retirement income?

Usually not. That’s why diversification is essential — combining rental income with dividends, franking credits, and cash provides stronger stability.

What happens if one partner passes away?

With binding death benefit nominations in place, pensions can pass seamlessly to the surviving spouse. Assets can stay in super rather than being forced out.

What if running the SMSF becomes too much?

You can engage professionals to help manage it, or choose to roll back into an industry fund later. The important thing is having flexibility as circumstances change.

Take Control of Your Retirement Future

If you’re in your 50s or early 60s and starting to think seriously about retirement, now is the time to act.

At Maven Advisors, our Port Macquarie SMSF specialists can help you:

Take control of your superannuation
Gain transparency and peace of mind
Build a retirement strategy that balances growth, income, and flexibility

👉 Book a consultation today and take control of your retirement future.

Call (02) 6584 9201 Book An Appointment