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
House title: What you need to know
A house title indicates who has legal ownership of a property and the rights to use it any way they see fit. Learn more about how a house title works.
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8-minute read
How to buy a house with ‘bad’ credit: Loan options, requirements, and credit-building steps
Learn how to buy a house with bad credit, including about the lowest possible credit score, home loan options for bad credit, and ways to boost your score.
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5-minute read
VA home loan inspection requirements: What to know
VA loans don't require a standard home inspection, but they do require a VA appraisal, and the home must meet minimum property requirements. Learn more.
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4-minute read
Property lines: Everything you need to know
Property lines define the legal boundaries of a plot of land or unit within a building. Knowing where your property ends can help you avoid disputes.
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7-minute read
Surprising factors that can affect a home appraisal
Your home’s location, layout, and curb appeal can all affect your appraisal. Here’s what you need to know about your appraisal and how to prepare fo...
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6-minute read
Builder’s risk insurance: A complete guide
Builder's risk insurance offers financial protection for properties under construction. Learn what it covers, what it doesn't, and when you need a policy.
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6-minute read
Mortgage principal definition and basics
The mortgage principal is the amount you borrowed for your loan, while interest is the fee for use of the loan. Learn how each makes up your monthly payment.
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11-minute read
What is a reverse mortgage and how does it work?
A reverse mortgage allows older homeowners to turn their home equity into cash they can use to stay in their home. Learn how a reverse mortgage works.
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9-minute read
FHA loan refinances: Requirements, pros, and cons
Refinancing to an FHA loan can help lower your monthly payments and change your loan terms. Learn about the types of FHA refinance loans and how to qualify.<...
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