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
7-minute read
What is a VA loan foreclosure and how can you prevent it?
If you’ve fallen behind on your VA loan payments, you may be worried about foreclosure. Learn about your options and how to avoid foreclosure.
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8-minute read
How to buy a house in Virginia
Thinking of moving to Virginia? Here’s what buyers should know about the housing market in Virginia and how to prepare to buy a property in the state.
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3-minute read
USDA guarantee fees: What are they and how do they work?
USDA loans may not require a down payment, but they do require guarantee fees. Uncover the meaning and role of a USDA guarantee fee in home buying.
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5-minute read
What is a VA-guaranteed loan?
The Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees home loans to eligible military personnel, veterans, and their surviving spouses. Learn more about how they wor...
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6-minute read
What is an open-end mortgage and should you consider getting one?
An open-end mortgage allows you to borrow the maximum loan amount you're approved for, even if you don't need it all to buy. Learn about open-end loans here....
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5-minute read
What is a warranty deed?
When you buy a home, you want to be sure that no one but you and your lender hold claim to the property. Find out how a warranty deed protects you.
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6-minute read
History of mortgage assistance programs: 2008 – today
No one thinks they’ll need mortgage relief, but life happens. Understanding the history of mortgage assistance programs can give context for today&rsqu...
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6-minute read
First lien vs. second lien: What’s the difference?
Second lienholders agree to be subordinate to the first if a borrower defaults or files for bankruptcy. Understanding this can help you manage your finances.
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9-minute read
How to buy a house in South Carolina
Are you thinking about buying a house in South Carolina? Learn about the local real estate market, popular cities, and how to buy a home in this state.
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