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mark-bristow

Mark Bristow

Personal Finance Editor

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Mark Bristow is RateCity's Home & Personal Finances Editor, and an experienced analyst, researcher, and producer. Focused primarily on Australian mortgage and home loan expertise, he 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.

960 articles written by Mark Bristow

Car Loans

E10 vs 91: Navigating your fuel choices

If you want to keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly mechanic bills, then choosing the right fuel is important. In Australia, regular unleaded petrol (91), premium unleaded (95 and 98) and E10 are among the most common petrol choices for motorists. If you’ve seen these names on the petrol bowser without fully understanding what they mean, here are the basics to help you make a more informed choice the next time you fill up your car.

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

20 Feb, 2024 -

5 min read

Home Insurance

Accidental damage home insurance: Protect your home from the unexpected

A home can be your pride and joy, but home ownership also means dealing with damages, which may need a quick DIY fix or major repairs. Home insurance with cover for accidental damage can provide a financial safeguard if your home needs extensive - and expensive - repairs.

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

19 Feb, 2024 -

4 min read

Home Insurance

How much should I insure my house for?

It’s important to determine the exact amount you’ll need to be insured for to cover potential losses. Understanding the nuances of home insurance can help ensure your property and possessions are adequately protected without overpaying. 

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

19 Feb, 2024 -

6 min read

Credit Score

How good debts and bad debts can affect your credit score

With political commentators discussing whether the latest Federal Budget has put Australia into too much debt (we’ll leave that debate to the experts), some everyday Aussies may be concerned about the debts in their own household budgets, and what they could mean for their financial futures.

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

16 Feb, 2024 -

4 min read

Home Insurance

Single item insurance: A comprehensive guide

If you own an item that’s worth a great deal of money, such as a treasured piece of high-end jewellery or a prized musical instrument, it’s important to know you’ll be covered if your item is lost or damaged. Single item insurance for high-value items can provide peace of mind in this situation. 

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

16 Feb, 2024 -

3 min read

Home Insurance

Switching home insurance: A comprehensive guide

There are many reasons why you might choose to switch home insurance. You might be looking to save money with a new provider, seeking more comprehensive cover, or looking for a better customer service experience.

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

16 Feb, 2024 -

3 min read

Credit Score

Four habits to keep your credit score top notch

Being mindful of your financial habits can make a big difference to how easy or hard it is to keep your credit score at the top end of the band. Here are four of the top ways to maintain or grow a good credit score:

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

15 Feb, 2024 -

4 min read

Home Loans

Cashback deals to compare as rates are kept on hold in February 2024

Many mortgage lenders have been gradually pulling their cashbacks from the market due to increasing refinancing activity and more intensive competition. But there are still cashback deals available for refinancers and first home buyers to compare, as well as other competitive incentives. 

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

14 Feb, 2024 -

4 min read

Home Insurance

What is contents insurance?

Contents insurance is a form of insurance that covers your personal possessions in the event of loss, damage or theft. Many insurance providers sell contents insurance as part of a package deal with home insurance, offering discounts if you purchase both together, but it is generally also available to purchase separately. 

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

13 Feb, 2024 -

5 min read

Term Deposits

How far can your savings take you? Some of the top-rated term deposits in February 2024

Has your term deposit been effectively losing you money in the past? With Australia’s inflation falling faster than expected, it may be getting easier to find term deposits that can keep your money from going backwards. But it’s important to compare the available options and choose a term deposit that will suit your needs and help you reach your savings goals.

mark-bristow

Mark Bristow -

12 Feb, 2024 -

3 min read