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
6-minute read
What is the average mortgage payment in North Carolina?
Discover the average mortgage payment in North Carolina, the factors influencing it, and how mortgage payments in the Tarheel State compare nationally.
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3-minute read
Refinancing with the same lender: Is it a good idea?
Should you refinance your loan with the same lender? It depends on your financial situation and what lenders are offering. Uncover pros and cons to consider....
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6-minute read
What are conforming loans and what do they mean to borrowers?
Conforming loans comply with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac rules and are thus eligible for purchase and resale to investors. Find out what that means for you.
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10-minute read
These are the best ROI home improvements and renovations
Renovations and home improvement projects can add significant value to your house. Learn more about the best return-on-investment (ROI) improvements for a home.
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7-minute read
Real estate investing: How many mortgages can you have?
Interested in multiple mortgages? Discover how many mortgages Fannie Mae allows, the borrowing requirements and alternative lending options to consider.
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4-minute read
How to calculate per diem interest
Borrowers can calculate per diem interest using a simple formula. Learn more about what per diem interest is and how it can be calculated on a mortgage loan....
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6-minute read
These 4 factors lead to a property tax increase
Property taxes are a core cost of homeownership, and these tax liabilities can increase over time. Learn the four factors that lead to a property tax increase.
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8-minute read
Buying a second home with a VA loan
VA loans are designed to help military personnel, veterans, and their families buy a primary residence, but there are ways you can use one to buy a second home.
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7-minute read
What to consider before getting a home equity line of credit (HELOC)
A home equity line of credit, just like other types of home financing, have significant pros and cons. Here’s what you should know before applying for a H...
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