Q: I’m very keen to understand how property investment using a self-managed super fund works and whether I can use it to buy a house to live in. I’m 45, have $190,000 in a government super scheme, earn $97,000 in a government job, have three kids, no other assets and $35,000 in savings. My husband, 59, only has $40,000 in super because he has had to deal with some complex health challenges for many years. In the last few years my super lost $40,000, and I want to ensure I don’t lose any more. We are hard and willing workers who would value any advice or pointers to resources to educate ourselves. Tracey.

A: Australians love property. As well as providing the comfort and stability of a roof over our heads, a residential property can also be an excellent investment.