Santa Monica Monthly – November 2025

Home Buyer Trends Highlight Growing Affordability Concerns

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A new report from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) shows that first-time buyers now make up just 21% of the housing market, the lowest share since tracking began, with the average age of first-time buyers increasing to 40 from 38 last year. NAR Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn warns that this decline highlights worsening affordability challenges and threatens upward mobility, as homeowners hold 43 times more wealth than renters. She adds that delaying homeownership by ten years could result in losing about $150,000 in equity on a typical starter home, underscoring the need for stronger affordability efforts across all levels of government.

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Food Obsession of the Month

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Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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Perfect for Thanksgiving, roasted garlic mashed potatoes take classic mashed potatoes to a whole new level. The smooth, buttery texture and rich, caramelized flavor of roasted garlic make them irresistible. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tang that brightens every bite.

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Source: Delish