Join a supportive community with a Howard Hanna Certified Buyer Specialist and discover how families just like yours are turning the dream of owning a home into reality even with limited income, credit, or savings.


Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, HowardHanna Real Estate Services
From foreclosure to homelessness, I know the challenges of rebuilding a life. As a single mom who turned hardship into purpose, I earned my Paralegal degree, built anew career, and became a licensed real estate professional during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, as part of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, I guide first-time buyers and sellers, especially those facing similar struggles toward the stability and pride of homeownership.
License Number: 10401357362
Certification: Howard Hanna Certified Buyer Specialist
Designation: RCS-D: Real Estate Collaboration Specialist-Divorce
Experience: 14+ years as a Paralegal

We’ll start by connecting you with trusted lenders and exploring available grants and assistance programs designed for first-time buyers. This ensures you understand your options, have access to the right resources, and feel confident about your financial readiness.

With over 14 years of paralegal experience and specialized training as a Certified Buyer Specialist, I’ll guide you through contracts, negotiations, and key decisions making the complex process clear and stress-free. You’ll always know exactly what to expect at each stage.

From house-hunting to closing day, I’ll be by your side to make sure every detail is handled. My goal is not just to help you buy a house, but to empower you to achieve the dream of homeownership even if you never thought it was possible.

As The Paralegal Realtor, Monica L. Cook is deeply committed to building stronger and more equitable housing opportunities throughout Schenectady County. She believes that true homeownership begins with access, education, and advocacy, and she actively participates in community efforts that bring these values to life for families across the region.
Monica is a proud member of Housing ONE Schenectady Together, a collaborative network that unites residents, advocates, and local organizations for monthly “Let’s Talk Housing” conversations. These gatherings, held both virtually and in person, provide a welcoming space to explore pathways to affordable homeownership, tenant protections, and neighborhood growth. Through her involvement, Monica helps connect first-time buyers with valuable resources offered by local partners such as the Schenectady Community Action Program (SCAP) and Better Community Neighborhoods Inc. (BCNI).
She also serves on the City of Schenectady’s Housing Stability Task Force, a 120-day initiative created by the Schenectady City Council to evaluate housing affordability, tenant protections, and neighborhood stability. The task force brings together community members and local leaders to identify thoughtful strategies that prevent displacement and promote access to safe, affordable homes.
Together, these roles reflect Monica’s dedication to helping families from all backgrounds achieve stability, empowerment, and the dream of homeownership. Her work continues to inspire and uplift the communities she serves, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to build a place to call home.

Are you tired of feeling stuck in subsidized housing, moving from place to place, and worrying about your family’s future? You’re not alone. Many families feel overwhelmed by the home buying process, unsure if they’ll ever qualify, or afraid of making a costly mistake.
“I don’t have enough money or good credit.”
Many of our members started with little savings or credit. We’ll show you real programs and grants designed for families just like yours.
“The process is too complicated.”
I break everything down step-by-step, with real people to answer your questions—no confusing paperwork alone.
“I don't know if I have the time”
The community is designed to fit your schedule, with flexible learning and quick answers when you need them. You can engage as much or as little as you like, and still get the support you need.
"I’ve tried looking into this before, and it always felt overwhelming or like a dead end.”
We understand that frustration. Our approach is different: we focus on clear, step-by-step guidance and connect you directly to the resources that actually work for families in your situation. We cut through the confusion so you can finally see a clear path.
Ready to Take the First Step?
No cost. No obligation. Just real help, real answers, and a real path to owning your home.
The Best Way To Find Your Perfect Home

My mission is to make sure every client, especially first-time buyers, understands the process clearly, knows what resources are available, and feels confident making decisions.

Having lived through foreclosure and homelessness myself, I understand the fears and challenges many aspiring homeowners face.

As a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, Certified Buyer Specialist, and paralegal with 14+ years of experience, I combine professionalism with advocacy.
No! We specialize in helping families with low credit and limited savings.
Yes, joining the community is 100% free.
That’s okay! You’ll get support and information at your own pace.
I don't just serve buyers, I also serve sellers. If you are a seller please reach out via my cell (518) 878-5414 or email [email protected].
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