The Australian Property Institute (API) is a professional membership organisation that represents property professionals in Australia. It is one of the leading organisations in the country dedicated to promoting excellence and professionalism in the property industry. The API provides various services and resources to its members, including education, accreditation, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
So what does the API have to do with SMSF property investment? We discuss this below.
What does the Australian Property Institute do?
Firstly, let’s look at what the Australian Property Institute means for the property industry in Australia.
Membership
The API offers different membership levels catering to various property professionals, including property valuers, property lawyers, analysts, advisers, and managers. Members benefit from access to industry information, continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities, and a network of peers and experts.
Education and accreditation
Maintaining and enhancing the professional standards of the property industry is one of the Australian Property Institute’s crucial roles. It offers educational programs, courses, and workshops to help members stay updated with the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices. The API also provides accreditation for property professionals, such as Certified Practising Valuer (CPV) and Certified Property Practitioner (CPP) designations.
Ethical code and professional practice
The institute sets out a comprehensive Code of Professional Practice and Code of Ethics that its members must adhere to. These codes ensure that members conduct themselves ethically, with integrity, and in the best interest of their clients and the public.
Advocacy
The API advocates on behalf of its members and the broader property industry, engaging with government bodies, industry stakeholders, and the public to promote policies supporting the profession and addressing issues related to the property sector.
Events and networking
With a commitment to education and training, the API organises various events, seminars, conferences, and networking opportunities to facilitate knowledge-sharing and collaboration among property professionals. These events provide a platform for members to learn from industry experts, exchange ideas, and build professional connections.
Research and publications
Regular research on property-related topics is conducted by the API, who also publish reports, white papers, and industry insights, contributing to the body of knowledge within the profession and informing policy discussions.
How is the API involved in SMSF property investment?
While there is no legal requirement for the property professionals involved in your SMSF property investment to be API members, prudent property investors understand the potential benefits of partnering with property professionals who hold membership with the property institute. Firstly, the institute promotes best practice in professional conduct, meaning that you can expect the utmost professional standards from the property lawyers or property valuation team involved with your property purchase.
Moreso, investing in direct property within your self-managed super fund is complex and requires specialised expertise — including from those on the property industry side. Another expertise set required when purchasing commercial or residential property within an SMSF is knowledge and experience regarding limited recourse borrowing arrangements (LRBA)s.
At SMSF Loan Experts, we assist SMSF trustees in sourcing the correct lending structure for their fund when borrowing to invest in direct property. Reach out to our team to learn more about how SMSF loan experts can assist you.
