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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

    January 08, 2026

    Create a Foolproof System for Tracking Rental Property Expenses

    Property Management

    Learn how to effectively track rental property expenses with these expert tips on deductions, expense logs, receipt management, and maintenance scheduling.

    December 23, 2025

    4 Things Military Renters Should Know About the Fair Housing Act

    Property Management

    Military renters have key tenant rights protected under HUD and the Fair Housing Act. Learn what protections apply to you and how to recognize potential violations.

    December 11, 2025

    Alternatives to Pet Boarding During the Holidays

    Travel Tips

    Discover alternatives to traditional pet boarding during the holidays to alleviate your pet care worries, including options near military lodging. Find the best choice for your furry friend!

    December 08, 2025

    Smart Tips for Your Military Family's Holiday Travel

    Travel Tips

    As you plan your military family's travel over the upcoming holiday season, make the most of these benefits and military discounts, from airline hacks to Amtrak discounts and Armed Forces Recreation C...

    December 02, 2025

    What to Know for a PCS Move to Fort Gordon, Georgia

    Army Posts

    Are you prepping for a PCS move to Fort Gordon? Here's everything you need to know, including where to live, things to do, and what to expect.

    November 26, 2025

    Make Temporary Military Housing Your Own

    PCS Moves

    Make temporary military housing your own with these easy ideas. Personalize your short-term home, and then get more tips for decorating your next military housing.

    November 10, 2025

    8 Fun Things to Do Near MCAS Cherry Point, NC

    Marine Corps Bases

    MCAS Cherry Point has plenty of beachfront to enjoy, but there's so much more! Check out our list of things to do near MCAS Cherry Point to get started on your North Carolina coastal adventures.

    November 07, 2025

    Should Renters Have a Pet Resume?

    Renting a Home

    Military families move often, so we need an upper hand to find pet-friendly rentals. A pet resume might be the tool that wins the contract.

    October 31, 2025

    What to Expect for Your PCS Move to NAS Lemoore

    Navy Bases

    Do you want to know what Naval Air Station Lemoore is all about? Here's everything you need to know before your PCS move: location, things to do, housing, and more.

    October 30, 2025

    Get to Know Portsmouth, Virginia

    PCS Moves

    Discover Portsmouth, Virginia: Explore neighborhoods, attractions, and essential tips for military families relocating to the Hampton Roads area.

    October 27, 2025

    Military Home Buying: How Much House Can You Really Afford?

    Home Buying

    Learn how military families can set a realistic home-buying budget, sidestep common mistakes, and use VA loans to make purchasing easier and more affordable.

    October 21, 2025

    Is a PCS to Naval Air Station Key West in Your Future?

    Navy Bases

    PCSing to NAS Key West? Find essential tips on housing, schools, cost of living, and local attractions to make the most of your tropical assignment.