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
6-minute read
Why you should consider putting your house into a trust
Putting your house into a trust can help simplify your estate and reduce probate costs. Learn how to put your house into a trust, the pros and cons, and more.
Read more
6-minute read
Green living is in demand: Clean air, pure water rank among home buyers’ top priorities
Homes that provide clean air and water top the wish list for aspiring homeowners, according to a new survey commissioned by Rocket Mortgage and Redfin.
Read more
6-minute read
What to know about manufactured home loans
Manufactured homes can be a flexible and affordable path to homeownership. Learn about your mortgage and financing options when buying a manufactured home.
Read more
7-minute read
Mortgage rate lock: A guide to protect you from rate fluctuations
A mortgage rate lock protects your interest rate from changing before you close. Learn what it is, how long it lasts, and how to use it to your advantage.
Read more
9-minute read
Home equity loan vs. personal loan: What's the best option?
While both home equity loans and personal loans have their own advantages, they differ in important ways. Learn about the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Read more
6-minute read
Does refinancing hurt your credit?
While refinancing your mortgage can temporarily lower your credit score, the long-term benefits can pay off. Read more about how refinancing affects credit.
Read more
7-minute read
How long does it take to close on a house?
Closing typically takes 30 - 60 days, but delays can extend the timeline. Learn how long the process takes and how to ensure you close as quickly as possible.
Read more
7-minute read
Is a home equity loan a good idea?
A home equity loan can be a good idea for some homeowners but risky for others. Here are the financial and personal factors to consider before applying.
Read more
5-minute read
What is fixture in real estate, and how is it determined?
Knowing what is and isn't a fixture in real estate can help you avoid disputes during a sale. Learn how a fixture is determined and about common gray areas.<...
Read more