Mark Bristow
Personal Finance Editor
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.
306 articles written by Mark Bristow
What is a buyer's agent?
A buyer’s agent can be your eyes and ears on the ground when comparing properties, and your representative when making a purchase via auction or private treaty.
Mark Bristow -
22 Oct, 2024 -
5 min read
Can a bank revoke a mortgage?
While it’s uncommon, it is possible for banks and mortgage lenders to revoke your home loan before you settle on a new property purchase.
Mark Bristow -
16 Oct, 2024 -
4 min read
Can you be your own mortgage broker?
Any Australian who thoroughly researches the home loan market and carefully compares mortgage offers could effectively serve as their own mortgage broker.
Mark Bristow -
15 Oct, 2024 -
5 min read
Can you use shares as equity for a home loan?
Your equity investments cannot be treated as security but could strengthen your case when applying for a home loan.
Mark Bristow -
14 Oct, 2024 -
3 min read
When do you start paying off your mortgage?
Once your mortgage is in place, you need to make repayments every month. When should you start repaying your mortgage?
Mark Bristow -
14 Oct, 2024 -
3 min read
What to expect from the RBA meeting in September 2024
Economists from some of Australia’s biggest banks are forecasting a rate cut is coming, though it may be later rather than sooner.
Mark Bristow -
20 Sep, 2024 -
5 min read
Gender super gap remains a problem - what you can do about it
A significant super gap still exists between Australian men and women. But there are also options that may be able to help some Australians take control of their superannuation.
Mark Bristow -
19 Sep, 2024 -
3 min read
The pros and cons of paying off your mortgage early vs buying an investment property
Paying off your mortgage early lets you own your home sooner and save money on interest charges. But could investing in a rental property be a better choice when it comes to wealth creation?
Mark Bristow -
10 Sep, 2024 -
6 min read
What do house valuers look for?
A professional valuation can be a little different to a real estate appraisal or online report. Understanding some of the differences could help to make sure your valuation is accurate.
Mark Bristow -
10 Sep, 2024 -
4 min read
One third of first home buyers get government support: How to apply for the Home Guarantee Scheme
Around one in three home first home buyers last year were supported by the federal government’s Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS), which could indicate a challenging purchasing environment.
Mark Bristow -
10 Sep, 2024 -
4 min read