Mark Bristow is RateCity's Home & Personal Finances Editor, and an experienced analyst, researcher, and producer. While primarily focused on Australian mortgage and home loan expertise, he has experience across energy, home and travel insurances. Mark has been a journalist and writer in the financial space for over ten years, previously researching and writing commercial real estate at CoreLogic. In the years since, Mark has worked for the Winning Group, Expedia, and has seen articles published at Lifehacker and Business Insider. Mark has also completed RG 146 (Tier 1), making him compliant to provide general advice for general insurance products like car, home, travel and health insurance, as well as giving him knowledge of investment options such as shares, derivatives, futures, managed investments, currencies and commodities.
307 articles written by Mark Bristow

Can I have two personal loans at the same time?
In many cases, it is possible to have two personal loans at the same time, even two personal loans from the same bank.

Mark Bristow -
17 Mar, 2025 -
5 min read

Fixed vs variable rates: which is better, and can you have both?
To fix or not to fix; it’s a question that every home loan borrower will need to answer. So, is a fixed rate or a variable rate home loan better? And is it possible to have both?

Mark Bristow -
14 Mar, 2025 -
5 min read

How to repair your credit score
Having a bad credit score can sometimes feel like a life sentence. However, there are ways to get your credit score back on track.

Mark Bristow -
14 Mar, 2025 -
6 min read

How to lower your mortgage repayments
Reducing your mortgage repayments can potentially save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.

Mark Bristow -
13 Mar, 2025 -
6 min read

Can a car be used as collateral for a loan?
It is possible to use a car as collateral to secure a loan, which could let you enjoy a cheaper interest rate. But there are also risks to consider before you apply.

Mark Bristow -
17 Feb, 2025 -
5 min read

The advantages and disadvantages of a chattel mortgage
A chattel mortgage is one of the financing options available when you’re buying a car for business use. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision.

Mark Bristow -
14 Feb, 2025 -
6 min read

Will my car loan affect my mortgage application?
A car loan may positively or negatively affect your mortgage application, depending on your credit score and debt to income ratio.

Mark Bristow -
14 Feb, 2025 -
8 min read

Can you convert a personal loan to a home loan?
If you are juggling multiple debts, one way to simplify your finances is by consolidating your debts into a single loan.

Mark Bristow -
14 Feb, 2025 -
6 min read

Will paying off a personal loan increase my credit score?
Will paying off your personal loan give your credit score a boost? Or could it have the opposite effect?

Mark Bristow -
14 Feb, 2025 -
5 min read

When I apply for a personal loan, will the lender contact my employer?
When applying for a personal loan, you’ll need to have gathered all your personal documentation and ensured you’re meeting the loan’s eligibility requirements.

Mark Bristow -
14 Feb, 2025 -
4 min read