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
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
7-minute read
Condo loans defined and explained
Planning to purchase a condominium? Discover how condo loans may differ from conventional home mortgages so you can have a smooth home buying experience.
Read more
7-minute read
How to find the best mortgage for you
Are you thinking about buying a home but not sure how to choose the best home mortgage? Learn about your options and find the best mortgage for you.
Read more
5-minute read
Loan modification: Defined and explained
A loan modification changes the terms of your existing loan to bring you current by adding past-due payments back to the balance. Understand how it works.
Read more
4-minute read
When should you consider selling your home as a senior?
If you’re a senior, you may wonder if it makes sense to sell your home and rent. Learn more about what’s important to consider before making this mo...
Read more
8-minute read
Earthquake insurance: What does it cover, and do you need it?
Earthquake insurance covers damages that homeowners insurance and renters insurance don’t. See how much earthquake insurance costs and decide if you need ...
Read more
7-minute read
A guide to VA loan termite inspections
When you take out a VA loan, you may be required to get a termite inspection. Learn more about the process of getting a VA loan termite inspection.
Read more