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
9-minute read
Starter home or forever home: Which is right for you?
A starter home is a small, affordable home for first-time buyers. Find out if it makes sense to buy a starter home or if a forever home is right for you.
Read more
9-minute read
Veteran housing assistance options: Grants, loans and programs
Explore veteran housing assistance options, including VA...
Read more
4-minute read
What is a desktop appraisal and how does it work?
A desktop appraisal is a property valuation that is completed remotely by a professional appraiser. Find out whether a desktop appraisal is right for you.
Read more
7-minute read
VA loan limits for 2025: What you need to know
Loan limits cap the amount you can borrow for a mortgage, but VA loans usually don't have a limit. Learn when a loan limit might apply and how they work.
Read more
6-minute read
Buying a house as a single woman: A how-to guide
Are you interested in becoming a homeowner but have a single income? Read our guide to learn more about what to expect when buying a house as a single woman....
Read more
8-minute read
Advice for second-time home buyers: What to know
Just because you’ve purchased a home before doesn’t mean the home buying process is always simple. Check out our advice for second-time home buye...
Read more
8-minute read
How to budget for a house: A home buyer’s guide to housing costs
Knowing how much you can afford to spend is an important first step toward buying a home. Learn how to set a budget that can help you afford a mortgage.
Read more
7-minute read
Financing multiple rental properties: A beginner's guide
Looking to invest in real estate but not sure how to secure financing for multiple rental properties? Here’s everything you need to know.
Read more
7-minute read
Using a home equity loan for your remodel: What to know
Thinking about a home remodel? If you have enough equity, a home equity loan could help you pay for it. Learn the benefits, risks, and tips for using one.
Read more