I will start looking at apts in May around Glen Cove, but a current student friend of mine at NYCOM said that the school will soon foward you a web board password so you can access housing available in the area. I am not sure about paying for a realtor. I can keep you posted if I find anything!
I talked to the admissions office today and they said that they are sending out a whole packet of stuff this week. I asked if the message board info was included, she said she thought so.