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.
1027 articles written by Mark Bristow
Are there fees for switching home loans?
Australian borrowers wanting a better home loan rate may be tempted to refinance their mortgage and switch to an offer from a competitor lender. But before you jump ship, make sure you check the fees, charges, and other costs that may be involved.
Mark Bristow -
27 May, 2022 -
5 min read
How to compare Australia's top home loan rates
It’s important to compare Australia’s top home loan rates before selecting a mortgage offer, and understanding how different rates, fees, features and other benefits could help you.
Mark Bristow -
27 May, 2022 -
5 min read
How does NAB Now Pay Later compare to the competition?
Big bank NAB is joining the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) pack with its new offer, NAB Now Pay Later. But how does this service rate alongside the established BNPL players?
Mark Bristow -
26 May, 2022 -
2 min read
How do variable rate mortgages work?
Many Australian home loan deals offer variable interest rates. But how exactly do these variable rate home loans work, and what are the benefits and drawbacks compared to other mortgage options?
Mark Bristow -
26 May, 2022 -
4 min read
How much interest will you pay over the life of a home loan?
Interest charges are one of the most significant costs to consider when applying for a home loan. But how much could a home loan ultimately cost, and are there any ways to lower the total interest you’ll pay?
Mark Bristow -
26 May, 2022 -
6 min read
What's the difference between variable and fixed rate home loans?
Borrowers taking out home loans have a choice to make when it comes to their interest rates – variable or fixed? There are advantages and disadvantages to both of these options, as well as to choosing a split rate mortgage.
Mark Bristow -
25 May, 2022 -
5 min read
Where to get help choosing your home loan
It turns out there are a lot more mortgage choices available than just the home loan offered at your local bank branch. Working out the best mortgage option to suit your needs can be a challenge, so you may need a little help along the way.
Mark Bristow -
25 May, 2022 -
5 min read
What the new Labor government means for your finances
With a new Labor government being sworn in following the 2022 federal election, many Australians may be wondering what the election result means for their finances, now and in the future. Several new Labor policies are expected to supplement existing federal government programs to provide Australians with economic support.
Mark Bristow -
23 May, 2022 -
4 min read
What is a fixed rate home loan?
Fixing your home loan interest rate can help keep your mortgage repayments stable and consistent for a limited time, for simpler budgeting and additional peace of mind. There are also other benefits to consider, along with a few risks, before you look at signing up for a fixed rate home loan.
Mark Bristow -
20 May, 2022 -
4 min read
Is it easy to switch home loan lenders?
Have you ever thought about refinancing your home loan, but decided it wasn’t worth the hassle? You may be surprised to find that switching mortgage lenders may actually be easier than you anticipated, which could make refinancing worth reconsidering.
Mark Bristow -
20 May, 2022 -
6 min read