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
8-minute read
A complete guide to a $100,000 mortgage
Considering a $100,000 mortgage? Learn about a loan this size, including how much you can expect to pay each month, eligibility requirements, and more.
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5-minute read
USDA construction loan requirements: Everything you need to know
Learn USDA construction loan requirements, who qualifies, what to expect, and how one can help you buy land and build your dream home with a single loan.
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6-minute read
What’s the difference between a home equity loan and a mortgage?
Mortgages are home loans used to purchase property. Home equity loans are a type of second mortgage used to access home equity. Learn more here.
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7-minute read
Can you refinance after bankruptcy?
In order to refinance after bankruptcy, you’ll need to follow the waiting period associated with your loan type. Learn how you can refinance after bankruptcy.
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7-minute read
Is now a good time to refinance my mortgage?
When is a good time to refinance your house? It depends on your circumstances. Learn about some indicators that refinancing could be a good decision for you.
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19-minute read
10 best rental property management software options for 2025
What's the best property management software? Discover the top rental property management software for real estate investors, property managers and landlords.
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7-minute read
What home buyers need to know about appraisal gaps
An appraisal gap occurs when a home appraisal comes in lower than an accepted offer. Learn more about what an appraisal gap is and how this process works.
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5-minute read
10 essential strategies to compete with cash buyers in a hot market
Discover effective strategies to make your mortgage-backed offer compete with cash buyers. Learn how to strengthen your position in a competitive market.
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7-minute read
What is a wholesale real estate contract?
Wondering if wholesale real estate is the right path for you? We're here to break down what you need to know about wholesale real estate contracts.
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