Meet South Boston’s newest homeowner. Closing day is a happy occasion, particularly for first-time homebuyers. However, when your son is the buyer, the moment is extra special. Will Domeniconi, my youngest son, became the new owner of a two-bedroom condo on tree-lined West 4th Street in South Boston on Friday. It was a great day!

Built in 1850, the Bigelow School is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The restoration and conversion into 49 rental units was completed in the late 1980’s. The conversion to owner occupied condominiums happened in 1995.

This grand three-story Classical Revival brick building was designed by Charles Bateman. It has huge doors and windows, high ceilings, wide corridors and oversized staircases that take you back in time…literally old school.

Outside there is ample green space and a delightful courtyard with mature trees and well-tended gardens, all enclosed by wrought iron fencing. While exploring the courtyard, I noticed a substantial herb garden, presumably maintained by the residents and maybe available to all…we will see!

Inside and outside, this property spoke to both Mother and Son. We were going for it.

The living area has incredible 28-foot ceilings, showcasing the original column detail and coffered ceiling. His unit was designed within a section of the former auditorium, including a bi-level loft that creates a double-height living area. Natural light pours in through the Palladian window creating a space filled with soul-soothing, light. The wide plank pine floors with original square nails bring more character and warmth to the living area. We are in the throes of a painting refresh. The transformation is worth the work.

The kitchen is compact but well designed and like new. Perfect amount of space for a messy cook without ‘someone’ to clean up after him….hahaha!

Here’s an A-Game handoff: hand-written notes, neatly organized manuals, keys, controllers, and neighborhood recommendations. The gift card to Lincoln was incredibly generous of the Seller, and greatly appreciated.

We were fortunate to have a fantastic team to guide and advise us throughout the transaction. Thanks to Chris Fitzpatrick at Fitzpatrick Real Estate, who represented the Seller. This wasn’t the easiest transaction, but Chris was consistently transparent and helpful in every interaction. Our lending partner was Rockland Trust, and Belmont native Christina Babigian assisted us in securing financing. Rockland’s got great products for first-time home buyers.  Pictured with Will at the closing table in the cover photo is Attorney Patrick Murphy, of Harris & Murphy LLP whose steady counsel, instilled confidence. A big shout-out to Fred Allard over at Movement Mortgage as well, thank you for everything Coach.

In the end, the numbers worked out for Will. He plans to rent the second bedroom to a friend, which will help cover the mortgage. If you (or your kid) need assistance navigating their first home purchase, I would be delighted to be…part coach, part confidence-builder. The process requires good planning and a grasp of the numbers. With a solid strategy and a great team, owning is attainable and far better than renting. Become a landlord, not a renter. I can help.