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.
1028 articles written by Mark Bristow
Some of the top-rated savings accounts in October 2023
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) held the cash rate at 4.10% in October 2023 for the fourth month in a row. While it’s not yet certain if the cash rate has peaked, there are several banks offering savings accounts with interest rates that may be able to help you beat inflation.
Mark Bristow -
05 Oct, 2023 -
3 min read
Some of the top-rated home loans in October 2023
The decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to keep the nation’s cash rate on hold this month may have come as a relief to Australia’s first home buyers and other owner occupiers. But with the possibility that rate could rise again before the year’s end, and with no rate cuts expected until mid to late 2024, it’s important for borrowers to carefully consider their mortgage options before making an application, to make sure it suits their finances.
Mark Bristow -
05 Oct, 2023 -
3 min read
How is seniors’ home insurance different from other policies?
Age shouldn’t be a factor preventing you from living the life you want, and many seniors enjoy a comfortable life well beyond their 70s and 80s.
Mark Bristow -
05 Oct, 2023 -
3 min read
Do you need a home insurance broker?
Home insurance brokers weigh up different insurance options to help find the best policy for your needs. While brokers are not for everyone, some people find them helpful when navigating through the insurance market.
Mark Bristow -
05 Oct, 2023 -
3 min read
These top-rated car loans for October could help you finance your next car
The new vehicle sales in Australia have continued to climb, with new data showing that four of the past five months have each been record months.
Mark Bristow -
04 Oct, 2023 -
3 min read
What to expect from the RBA in October 2023
A recent uptick in monthly inflation has some concerned that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) could prematurely end the current cash rate hiking pause. But economists from the big banks aren’t predicting rate hikes in the October meeting, though there could still be another hike before the year is out.
Mark Bristow -
28 Sep, 2023 -
5 min read
Inflation uptick: How will this affect interest rates in October?
The annual inflation rate climbed higher month on month in August 2023 for the first time in four months, according to the latest economic data.
Mark Bristow -
27 Sep, 2023 -
3 min read
What does home insurance cover?
Usually, home insurance will cover any damage caused by unpredictable incidents, whether natural or as a result of humans. Depending on the insurer, having home insurance can also mean you have access to temporary accommodation while repairing or renovating your property after making a claim.
Mark Bristow -
25 Sep, 2023 -
8 min read
Is negative gearing to blame for house unaffordability?
Negative gearing allows investors to claim any losses they incur on an investment property against their personal tax income and is often accused of driving up the price of property by encouraging investors to enter the market. Some economists have called for it to be abolished, and many blame it for Australia’s housing unaffordability.
Mark Bristow -
22 Sep, 2023 -
6 min read
How to invest in Australian property as a non-resident
Investing in Australian property can often prove lucrative for international investors, thanks to the high-quality lifestyle, and choice of locations. If you want to invest in Australian property, you’ll need to understand the rules and regulations governing non-resident borrowers. Before your application for a non-resident home loan can be approved, the government authorities will evaluate it.
Mark Bristow -
22 Sep, 2023 -
6 min read