Jennifer Lopez is reportedly considering purchasing a $20 million mansion in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, a location notably close to where her ex-husband, Ben Affleck, currently resides. This news comes as Lopez recently toured the estate, which is being sold off-market, according to a source with direct knowledge who spoke to TMZ. The source revealed that while Lopez, 55, is quite fond of the property, she harbors “serious concerns” about the air quality in the area, particularly due to the ongoing wildfires that have been raging since January 7. These concerns are significant enough that Lopez has decided to bring in an air quality specialist to assess the area before moving forward with the purchase.
The wildfires, which have devastated parts of Los Angeles, including the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, have had a profound impact on the region. As of Friday evening, the Palisades Fire was 77% contained, but officials continue to warn about the poor air quality throughout the county. Ben Affleck, who owns a $20 million mansion on the border of Brentwood and Pacific Palisades, was forced to evacuate his home due to the fire. The actor-director, 52, temporarily stayed with his first wife, Jennifer Garner, and their three children—Violet, 19, Seraphina, 16, and Samuel, 12—at her Brentwood home. However, Affleck has since returned to his new house, which he purchased just two months before the fire broke out.
Despite the challenges posed by the wildfires, Lopez has been actively involved in the situation, particularly when it comes to supporting Affleck. A source previously told Page Six that Lopez “has been checking in on Ben throughout this whole ordeal” and has “let him know she’s there for him and the kids.” This level of support is notable, especially given that the two finalized their divorce earlier this month. Their marital mansion in Beverly Hills, which they are still trying to sell for a reported $61 million, serves as a reminder of their shared past, even as they navigate their separate futures.
The ongoing wildfire crisis has brought to light the broader issue of air quality and its impact on health. Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, warned during a press conference that fire debris and ash contain harmful substances like heavy metals, asbestos, and toxic chemicals. “Heavy metals such as lead and arsenic can come from burned electronics and building materials,” she explained, adding that long-term inhalation of these substances can lead to chronic respiratory conditions. These concerns are particularly relevant for Lopez, who is considering making this fire-affected area her new home.
Lopez’s decision to hire an air quality specialist underscores the seriousness of her concerns. While she is clearly taken with the Brentwood property, she is also cautious about the potential health risks associated with living in an area affected by wildfires. This approach reflects her practical side, as she weighs the appeal of the mansion against the need to ensure a safe and healthy environment for herself and her family. At the same time, her willingness to invest in expert advice demonstrates her commitment to making an informed decision, one that prioritizes both her personal well-being and the long-term value of the property.
In the end, the situation highlights the complex interplay between personal choice, environmental factors, and human relationships. Both Lopez and Affleck are navigating the challenges of homeownership in a region prone to natural disasters, all while maintaining a supportive dynamic despite their past marriage. As they move forward—Lopez with her potential new home and Affleck with his return to his fire-affected property—both are likely to remain acutely aware of the ever-present risks and uncertainties that come with living in such a beautiful yet fragile environment. Their stories serve as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the face of nature’s unpredictability.
