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

A woman viewing a smart home hub device, suggesting the concept of smart home technology and control.

7-minute read

Smart home: Definition, benefits, and the best smart home devices

Smart home technology lets you remotely control devices and systems in your home. Discover the advantages of a smart home and explore the top devices.

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Young couple looking at tablet on couch while taking a break from shopping.

6-minute read

Tenancy in common vs. joint tenants

 What is the difference between joint tenancy and tenants in common? Learn about the legal differences between these two ownership designations and underst...

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Historic row of two story brick townhomes.

5-minute read

How to determine a good investment property: Here’s what to look for

It’s essential to know how to identify a good investment property before choosing one. Read our helpful guide to know what to look for during your hunt...

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New construction farmhouse style home in last phase of build with white siding and covered porch.

7-minute read

Buying a new-construction home

Buying a new-construction home can help you get the place of your dreams. Learn about the process, costs, benefits, and drawbacks so you know what to expect.

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A white house nestled among trees in a suburban area.

5-minute read

Condo vs. house: Which is best for you?

Trying to decide between buying a condo or a house? Learn the key differences in cost, maintenance, lifestyle, and more to make the right choice for you.

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Duplex with green siding and pink doors. A large tree frames the front yard and shrubs flank the entrance staris.

5-minute read

Single-family vs. multifamily homes: What’s the difference?

Single-family homes are detached from other homes, while multifamily homes are connected to other units. Here are the differences between these properties.

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Large multistory home in an expansive field of blue bonnets.

5-minute read

What’s the average mortgage payment in Texas?

Curious about the average mortgage payment in Texas? Explore monthly costs, state-specific trends, and what to expect when buying a home in the Lone Star State.

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Two story brick home in Spring.

6-minute read

What is the average monthly mortgage payment in Ohio?

Discover the average monthly mortgage payment in Ohio, the factors influencing it, and how it compares nationally. Learn more about owning property in Ohio.

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Woman working on a computer, possibly managing real estate details or financial matters.

6-minute read

Buy a house online: A quick guide

Looking to buy a house completely online? No matter if you’re moving near or far, a home purchase is possible. Here’s where and how to buy a home on...

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