Break Free From Renting. Start Your Journey to Homeownership

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.

Monica L. Cook

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, Howard Hanna Real Estate Services

Monica L. Cook

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, HowardHanna Real Estate Services

Monica's Story

Hey, I'm Monica!

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

Navigate the Process with Confidence

With over 14 years of paralegal experience and specialized training as a Howard Hanna Certified Buyer Specialist, I’ll help you understand contracts, negotiations, and key decisions, making the process clear and manageable. While your attorney will review and provide legal advice on contracts, I’ll ensure you feel informed and supported at every stage, so you always know what to expect.

How Our Community Helps You Succeed

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Build a Strong Financial Foundation

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.

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Navigate the Process with Confidence

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.

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Unlock the Door to Homeownership

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.

Talk to someone who cares

Community Advocacy and Housing Involvement

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.

READY TO GIVE US A TRY?

I Understand Where You’re Coming From

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.

But there is a path forward—and you don’t have to walk it alone.

Paralegal, realtor and advocate: How Monica Cook helps first-time home buyers

Worried You Won't Qualify?

Think Again

“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.

SERVICES

The Best Way To Find Your Perfect Home

Empowerment Through Education

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.

Compassion and Relatability

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

Advocacy and Professional Integrity

As a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, Certified Buyer Specialist, and paralegal with 14+ years of experience, I combine professionalism with advocacy.

I've helped people who are...

single parents

growing families

yOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Gig economy workers

RECENT IMMIGRANTS

LGBTQI+ INDIVIDUALS

ASPIRING ENTREPRENUERS

RECENTLY RETIRED

RECENTLY MARRIED

STILL NOT SURE?

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Do I need perfect credit or a big down payment?

No! We specialize in helping families with low credit and limited savings.

Question 2: Is this really free?

Yes, joining the community is 100% free.

Question 3: What if I’m not ready to buy yet?

That’s okay! You’ll get support and information at your own pace.

Question 4: Do you work with sellers?

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].

Your Homeownership Journey Starts Here

How to reach me

Address: 480 Balltown Rd, Suite 2, Schenectady, NY 12304

20 Aviation Rd, Albany, NY 12205, USA

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