Tom McLean is a veteran writer, editor, and author with more than 30 years’ experience as a professional journalist.

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.

Expertise

Mortgage
Personal Finance
Real Estate

Education

University of Arizona, Bachelor of Arts in journalism

Recent Articles

A family playing together in the lounge at home, showing family bonding and leisure time.

3-minute read

Home Mortgage Disclosure Act: Defined and explained

The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) requires lenders to report on its lending activities to the public. Learn more about the HMDA and how it works.

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Four-Point Inspection

6-minute read

What is a 4-point inspection?

A 4-point inspection looks at a property's four major systems. Learn more about what a 4-point inspection is and why you may need one before purchasing a home.

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Ranch style home in California.

4-minute read

What to know about community property states

If you live in a community property state, property acqu...

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Couple reviewing paperwork together.

5-minute read

What are asset classes?

Asset classes are categories of investments, such as real estate, stocks, and bonds. Discover how diversifying your portfolio can enhance your returns.

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Real estate agent shaking hands with client who is out of frame.

3-minute read

Recording fees, defined and explained

What are recording fees, how much will they cost you, and what will happen if you don’t pay them? Find all the answers in our guide to recording fees.

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Retired couple cooking in kitchen together, smiling and drinking wine.

4-minute read

What is a mortgage maturity date and how does it work?

A mortgage maturity date indicates when you’re expected to make your last mortgage payment. Learn more about how maturity dates work and how to find yours...

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Man inspecting a home, indicating a property inspection process or assessment.

7-minute read

How to find a home inspector

Hiring a qualified home inspector can save you thousands of dollars down the road. Learn what credentials to look for and how to find a good home inspector.<...

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Close up of clients and Realtor reviewing contract.

5-minute read

What is a VA adjustable-rate mortgage?

If you’re a veteran looking to buy a home, an adjustable-rate mortgage from the VA might be an affordable option. Learn more about VA-backed ARMs.

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Interior view of a well-designed and modern kitchen space.

6-minute read

How buyers can negotiate house price

Are you ready to purchase your dream home? Learn how to negotiate house prices to increase your chances of getting the best deal on your future home.

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