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
Do I need mortgage protection insurance?
Mortgage protection insurance pays your mortgage if you die or become disabled. Learn how MPI works, what it covers, and whether it's right for you.
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13-minute read
Your ultimate guide to home loans for people with disabilities
Purchasing a home can present unique challenges for people with disabilities. Learn more about loan options and resources for home buyers with disabilities.
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10-minute read
Qualifying for a mortgage: The basics
Many factors can determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Learn what factors affect your mortgage qualification and how you can improve your chances.
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7-minute read
FHA 203(k) loans: A complete guide
An FHA 203(k) loan allows you to buy and renovate a home in need of significant repairs with a single mortgage. Learn more about 203(k) loan qualifications.<...
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5-minute read
What does a title company do?
A title company is a third party that works on behalf of both the lender and the buyer. Learn more about what title companies do in the home buying process.<...
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3-minute read
What is a transfer tax?
A transfer tax is a one-time fee for transferring property ownership. Learn how transfer tax is assessed, state and local government rules, and how it works.
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4-minute read
Buying a condo with a VA loan
You can buy a condo with a VA loan as long as you’re eligible and the condo complex is VA-approved. Learn more about using a VA loan to buy a condo.
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7-minute read
What is cash to close?
Understand how to calculate a “cash to close” total and which fees make up this important figure before closing on your house.
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6-minute read
Oregon property tax: A guide
Are you getting ready to buy a house in Oregon? Learn how Oregon property taxes work, average tax rates, exemptions, and what you should know before buying.
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