Headshot of Tom McLean

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

Media mentions

Recent Articles

Senior couple sitting on sofa in home with a tablet and relaxing together.

9-minute read

How to buy a house in Georgia

Is Georgia on your mind? Here’s what buyers should know about the market and how to prepare to buy a house in Georgia.

Read more

Row of homes along a sidewalk in German Village neighborhood in Ohio.

4-minute read

Average closing costs in Ohio

Closing costs in Ohio are lower than the national average. However, it's still important to know how much to expect to pay. Learn how much closing costs are ...

Read more

Front view of similar brick houses with red and blue door.

9-minute read

What is a VA IRRRL Streamline refinance?

A VA IRRRL may be the best option for you if you want lower monthly payments. Read our article to learn more about VA Streamline refinance and how it works.<...

Read more

A couple sitting together on a couch, looking at a tablet in a bright and modern living room filled with greenery, enjoying a cozy and relaxed moment at home.

6-minute read

How are mortgage rates and inflation related?

When inflation increases, interest rates on new mortgages and ARMs increase too. Learn more about the relationship between inflation and mortgage rates.

Read more

A street lined with cars and buildings in Reading, Pennsylvania.

5-minute read

How to buy a house in Pennsylvania

Thinking of moving to the Keystone State? Here’s what buyers should know about the market and how to prepare to buy a house in Pennsylvania.

Read more

A line of houses set against a backdrop of clear blue sky and fluffy white clouds.

7-minute read

How to get a VA loan after bankruptcy

Getting a VA loan after bankruptcy is possible, but there’s a process that some may find challenging. Here’s what to expect.

Read more

Woman calculating finances on paper with a laptop nearby.

8-minute read

A guide to getting a HELOC with 'bad' credit

Lenders review your credit, debt-to-income ratio, home equity, and other factors when you apply for a HELOC. Learn about getting a HELOC with 'bad' credit.

Read more

A father holding his child and dog in his lap.

5-minute read

VA home loan occupancy requirements

VA home loan occupancy requirements mandate that you live in the property you purchase with a VA loan. Learn more about how to meet this standard.

Read more

Man sitting on staircase with peaceful and happy look on his face.

5-minute read

8 tax deductions for homeowners: Your breaks and benefits

If you own your home, you can save money when on income tax by deducting specific expenses. Get the most value from your home with these 8 tax deductions.

Read more

11 of 37