Structuring my life around what truly matters, I’ve prioritized helping others, building community, and creating meaningful connections in everything I do. Through every challenge and change in life, I’ve remained focused on being there for my family, friends, and community.
When I was teaching at Saint Anthony’s Elementary School, I couldn’t help but notice the courtyard—just a patch of grass, empty and unused. But I saw potential. What if we turned it into a garden? I envisioned a place where kids could get their hands in the dirt, grow their own food, and connect with something meaningful.
My family and I took on the project together. My dad dug trenches, laid irrigation pipes, and made sure everything was set up properly. My husband and kids helped build the planters from scratch. We had volunteers, teachers, and parents all pitching in. It was a lot of work, but it was one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. For years, I ran that garden club. In our community, agriculture is very important, and this brought it to a level where students could experience it firsthand—gaining practical skills, learning about sustainability, and developing a deeper connection to the land around them.
My love for community started young. Soccer was a huge part of my life growing up, and it was something my dad, an immigrant from Portugal, used to initially connect with people here. He coached my sisters and me, and the game became the thread that tied us to friendships, discipline, and dreaming big. Soccer gave me some of my best childhood memories, my closest friends, and even a scholarship to play Division I in college. I was the first in my family to go to college at all, and I’ll never forget how much my community—coaches, teachers, and supporters—rallied behind me.
Later, I came back to coach, side by side with my dad, who still coaches to this day at the high school I attended. We even won a section championship together! Now, with three sons, Tino, Max, and JP sports remain a big part of our lives. They play soccer, football, baseball, track and basketball. And I’m there for it all, fully embracing the sports community and my role as a professional sports mom.
It was my family that ultimately made me realize I needed a career change. Juggling a full-time teaching job with three young kids was overwhelming. Mornings were a mad rush, dropping them off with diaper bags and car seats, only to spend the rest of the day thinking about all the moments I was missing. For several years I taught middle school and high school science classes, but the structure wasn’t flexible, and no matter how hard I worked, my income would always stay the same.
That realization led me down a new path. I started learning about entrepreneurship, and eventually, real estate. At first, I hesitated—I wasn’t a salesperson, and handling something as significant as buying or selling a home felt intimidating. But the more I learned, the more I saw that this was just another way to serve people, to be part of their journey, and to make a difference in my community.
Real estate gave me the freedom to be present and show up when it matters most. I still work hard—probably harder than ever—but now I control my schedule and can fully commit to the things that matter. Whether it’s my love for community, my drive to help others, or my desire to create a lasting impact, I’ve structured my life around these values. From starting the school garden to building a career in real estate, every venture has been about connection and creating something meaningful.
Outside of work, I am very involved in my church and in the Portuguese community. Through Luso, my family participates in cultural events, including my boys competing in traditional Portuguese dance competitions. As a family, we love traveling, camping, and going on adventures!
When you work with me, you’re gaining a trusted partner who truly cares about your journey. For those selling a home—whether handling a loved one’s estate or preparing for a move—I take a meticulous approach to ensure the property is staged, marketed, and presented in the best possible way to attract buyers and maximize value. For buyers, whether purchasing a first home, upgrading to a larger space, or relocating to a new area, I provide expert guidance to help navigate the market with confidence. With a strong network of trusted vendors, I can connect clients with movers, packers, inspectors, and contractors to make the process as seamless as possible. Communication is everything to me—I’m always available, responsive, and proactive, ensuring you feel confident and supported throughout the entire process.
I make sure my clients know they can count on me—not just for a successful real estate transaction, but for advice, resources, and support long after the deal is done. Many come to me through referrals and word of mouth, which is the greatest compliment I can receive. If you're looking for an agent who values professionalism, connection, and service, I’d love the opportunity to help you achieve your real estate goals!
Sincerely,
Monica Abrew
