Tom McLean
Sr. Editor
Tom McLean is a veteran writer, editor, and author with more than 30 years’ experience as a professional journalist. A graduate of the University of Arizona, McLean worked as a news writer, copyeditor, and page designer for daily newspapers in Arizona, Idaho, and California before entering entertainment journalism as a features editor at Variety, where he covered such diverse topics as animation, visual effects, the Oscars, and the comic book business. His freelance articles have appeared in Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Animation Magazine, Animation World Network, Newsarama.com and the Los Angeles Times. He is the author of Mutant Cinema: The X-Men Trilogy from Page to Screen, published in 2008, and served three years as editor in chief of Animation Magazine. Tom joined Rocket Los Angeles in 2021 to bring his experience to topics ranging from auto insurance to mortgages, real estate, loans, and personal finance. A native of Canada, he lives in Los Angeles with his wife and their two daughters.
Recent Articles
9-minute read
How much house can I afford with a $90K salary?
Wondering how much house you can afford on a $90K salary? See price ranges, payment rules, and key factors, then use our tools to estimate your budget.
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9-minute read
What’s the average mortgage payment in Texas?
Learn the average mortgage payment in Texas, how costs vary by county, and what taxes, insurance, and rates can mean for your budget. Explore options today.
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9-minute read
Comparative market analysis (CMA) in real estate: A guide
Learn how a comparative market analysis (CMA) in real estate works, what reports include, and when buyers or sellers should request one. Read the guide.
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9-minute read
Texas jumbo loan limits for 2026
Learn the Texas jumbo loan limits for 2026, when a mortgage becomes a jumbo loan, and what buyers need to qualify. Compare options and get started today.
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9-minute read
Manual underwriting: How it works for mortgages
Manual underwriting allows lenders to consider borrowers with thin credit, a high DTI, or unique finances. Learn how it works and what documents to prepare.
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9-minute read
Manufactured home loans: What buyers should know
Learn how manufactured home loans work, including FHA, VA, conventional, and chattel options, key requirements, and costs. Compare paths and apply today.
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10-minute read
Refinancing a mortgage: What it is and how it works
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7-minute read
VA IRRRL Streamline refinance: Requirements, costs, and benefits
Learn how a VA Streamline refinance works, including eligibility, costs, funding fees, and alternatives. See if refinancing makes sense for you.
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11-minute read
Avoid capital gains tax when selling and buying a new home
Learn how you might avoid having to pay capital gains tax when selling one house and buying another, including exclusions, basis rules, and 1031 exchanges.
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