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
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...
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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.
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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.
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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.
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4-minute read
Dual agency: What to know before you buy
Dual agents work for the buyer and seller in real estate transactions. Learn more about how this works and how to decide if dual agency is right for you.
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8-minute read
10 things to do after closing on a house
Just closed on your new home? Discover 10 essential steps to take after closing to protect your investment, avoid common issues, and set yourself up for succ...
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11-minute read
What can home buyers learn to navigate market turbulence?
How can current first-time home buyers apply today’s tools and yesterday’s lessons to navigate a turbulent housing market?
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3-minute read
VA loan for investment property: Can you use one?
VA loans can make homes more affordable for qualifying military personnel, but can you use a VA loan for an investment property? Get the answer.
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5-minute read
Everything to know about a statement of service for a VA loan
You will need a statement of service detailing your military service to apply for a VA loan. Learn more about why you need this document and how to get one.<...
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