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
7-minute read
What is the Section 504 Home Repair program?
Learn how the Section 504 Home Repair program works, including USDA loan and grant limits, eligibility, approved repairs, and how to apply. Get details today...
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7-minute read
Should you consider a HELOC on your investment property?
A HELOC on an investment property can give you access to cash for improvements and further investments. Learn more about how they work and how to get one.
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8-minute read
What to do after closing on a house: 15 next steps
Learn what to do after closing on a house, from changing locks and setting up utilities to saving documents and avoiding scams. Use this checklist now.
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12-minute read
How much does it cost to build a house?
Learn how much it costs to build a house, from square-foot estimates to land, permits, and financing costs. Compare build vs. buy and explore next steps.
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10-minute read
FHA multifamily loans: Requirements, limits and options
Learn how FHA multifamily loans work for 2- to 4-unit homes, including occupancy rules, loan limits, down payments and alternatives. Explore your options.
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6-minute read
USDA mortgage insurance: Costs, guarantee fees, and how it works
USDA loans require an upfront and an annual guarantee fee instead of mortgage insurance. Learn about these costs and how they compare with other loan types.
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6-minute read
Assumable mortgage: How it works, costs, pros and cons
Learn how an assumable mortgage works, which loans qualify, what it costs, and how to decide if taking over a seller's loan is right for you. Start here.
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8-minute read
Portfolio loans: How they work and who qualifies
Portfolio loans may help borrowers with flexible mortgage needs. Learn how they work, who qualifies, and what costs to compare before you apply.
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6-minute read
Can you refinance before selling your home, and should you?
You can refinance your home before selling but may prevent you from earning back the cost. Learn more about how refinancing affects the finances of selling.
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