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    Dawn M. Smith

    Dawn M. Smith has made a career out of being a relocation pro. As a military spouse with 10+ moves under her belt, she's evolved from a reluctant mover to a master of converting cardboard box mountain nightmares into customized homes. She's constantly updating her skills to improve all aspects of moving. Her specialties include strategic (with a dose of luck) house hunting, home buying, selling, and renting, and attempting to create Pinterest-worthy spaces within landlord-approved decorating. When not decoding neighborhood demographics for readers, Dawn teaches companies how to serve military families and their best interests. She also travels and explores historic districts with her family, always scouting her next possible address after Army retirement. In addition to MilitaryByOwner, Dawn's relocation advice has appeared in Angi, The Spruce, Forbes Home Advisor, the PODS Blog, and Military OneSource.
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    Posts By Dawn M. Smith

    August 21, 2025

    Remote Work Options for Military Spouses

    Military Life

    Military spouses, this is your time to find the remote work you need and want! Find out which companies are building their remote military spouse workforces.

    August 15, 2025

    Interesting and Unique Things to Do in Arlington, Virginia

    Military Life

    Arlington, Virginia, is one of the best places to live near Washington, D.C. Before your PCS, take a look at some of the best traditional and not-so-traditional things to do in Arlington.

    August 11, 2025

    The Hidden Costs of Selling Your Home

    Selling a Home

    Have you considered the hidden costs of selling your home? Learn how to navigate expenses like closing fees, mortgage pay-offs, and more.

    August 09, 2025

    It’s Time to Freshen Up Your Fall Home Decor

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Fall home decorating doesn't mean only pumpkins and gourds. Try your hand at some of these creative ideas from MilitaryByOwner's resident decorating guru!

    August 05, 2025

    20 Fun Facts About Fort Hood

    Army Posts

    Are you making a PCS to Texas? Discover 20 fun facts about Fort Hood, from housing and local life to hidden gems, before your move to the Great Place.

    August 04, 2025

    Affordable Home Decor Ideas for Military Families on the Move

    PCS Moves

    Affordable home decor ideas for military families. Discover budget-friendly tips to personalize your space, repurpose items, and get creative with what you already own.

    August 01, 2025

    What Renters Should Know About Tenant Screening

    Renting a Home

    Landlords use tenant screening tools to find tenants, including a background check for renters. Learn what to expect.

    July 28, 2025

    Maximize Curb Appeal and Photos: Key Tips for Selling Your House

    Selling a Home

    Maximize your home's sale potential with tips on curb appeal, interior updates, and professional photography. Get your house ready to attract the best buyers and highest offers.

    July 25, 2025

    Personalize Military Housing or Rentals with Easy Decor Ideas

    Home Decorating Ideas

    You don't have to succumb to beige carpet and white, bare walls. Use these tips to inspire your home decorating for a rental or military housing!

    July 22, 2025

    What Landlords and Tenants Should Know Before the Eviction Notice

    Property Management

    Whether you're a landlord or a renter, it's important to know the facts of what's actually involved in the eviction process and termination of lease. What's legal and what's not?

    July 19, 2025

    Things to Do with the Whole Family in Hampton Roads, Virginia

    Military Life

    A PCS move to Hampton Roads, Virginia, means there's plenty of family-friendly events to plan for. Explore beaches, museums, and everything in between!

    July 16, 2025

    What to Know for Your PCS to Maxwell Air Force Base and Gunter Annex

    Air Force Bases

    Are you making a PCS move to Maxwell AFB or Gunter Annex near Montgomery, Alabama? Here's a roundup of info about the area, including housing, schools, and local attractions.