SSAS vs SIPP: Which Is Better for Property Investors in 2025?

When it comes to building a tax-efficient pension portfolio with exposure to UK property, investors often ask: SSAS or SIPP — which is better?

While both offer pension tax benefits, they serve different purposes. In 2025, with investors looking for direct access to high-yielding real estate and alternative investments, SSAS pensions are emerging as the preferred choice — especially for business owners and high-net-worth individuals.

Here’s a full comparison of SSAS vs SIPP for UK property investors.

What Is a SIPP?

A Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) is a personal pension plan available to individuals who want more control over their retirement savings. SIPPs allow investment in:

Stocks and shares
Funds and ETFs
Commercial property (via a limited range of providers)

However, SIPPs have restrictions when it comes to direct property development, loans to businesses, or syndicated investment opportunities.

What Is a SSAS?

A Small Self-Administered Scheme (SSAS) is a company pension scheme designed for business owners and directors. It offers:

Greater control over pension assets
Ability to loan money back to your business (up to 50% of the fund value)
Investment in commercial and residential development (via indirect routes)
Participation in syndicated or structured investments (like Rise Capital’s model)

SSAS vs SIPP – Key Comparison Table

Feature	SIPP	SSAS
Control	Moderate	High
Suitable	Limited	Ideal
Commercial Property Investment	Yes (direct only)	Yes (direct or via SPV)
Residential Property Investment	Not allowed	Allowed via SPV or loan structure
Syndicate Investment	Rarely accepted	Common and flexible
Loan Back to Business	Not permitted	Up to 50% of fund value
Trustee Role	Provider controls	Trustees (you) control
Setup Requirements	Simple, individual	Requires company setup and admin

Why SSAS Works Better for Property and Alternative Investment

In today’s climate, where private credit and real estate development offer strong inflation-resistant returns, SSAS provides the flexibility needed to:

Co-invest in structured real estate models
Secure fixed income and capital upside
Hold security over UK property
Access investments not available via traditional SIPP providers

For example, Rise Capital’s Debt-Free Syndicate model allows SSAS holders to:

Earn up to 10% p.a. fixed returns
Gain equity upside when investing across all tranches
Invest in projects with escrow protection and legal charge security
Access residential development projects aligned with ESG goals

Shariah-Compliant Investors Can Use SSAS Too

SSAS pensions can also be used to invest in Shariah-compliant structures, such as Rise Capital’s Master Commodity Murabaha Agreement. This offers halal investment access to UK real estate for Islamic investors, with no riba, speculation, or uncertainty.

Who Should Consider a SSAS?

SSAS is ideal for:

Company directors and business owners
High-net-worth individuals seeking more control
Investors looking to co-invest or participate in property syndicates
Anyone looking to diversify their pension into secure, alternative asset classes

Want to Learn More About Using a SSAS to Invest in Property?

Rise Capital works closely with a panel of approved SSAS providers to help investors:

Set up and register a new SSAS
Transfer funds from an existing SIPP
Gain access to live investment opportunities through our secure platform

👉 Contact us today to receive your free SSAS investment guide.