<img src="https://d5nxst8fruw4z.cloudfront.net/atrk.gif?account=5C8hi1agq800qI" style="display:none" height="1" width="1" alt="">

    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.
    Find Dawn M. Smith on:

    Posts By Dawn M. Smith

    June 11, 2026

    Summer Home Maintenance Made Simple

    Home Maintenance

    Simplify summer home maintenance with practical tips and a checklist to keep your home in top shape while enjoying the season's warm weather.

    June 03, 2026

    How to Choose Your Non-Negotiables When Buying a Home

    Home Buying

    When it comes to buying a home, military families need to decide on their essential non-negotiables. Learn how to set your list, from budget and location to future rental potential.

    June 01, 2026

    19 Facts You Didn’t Know About the U.S. Army

    Military Life

    Discover fascinating and surprising facts about the U.S. Army as it celebrates its birthday, from its origins to presidential connections and iconic taglines.

    May 26, 2026

    Easy Ways to Add Curb Appeal Before Your Home Sale

    Selling a Home

    Enhance your home's curb appeal with key upgrades and maintenance to attract buyers and maximize your home sale potential. Start here with these tips for staging your house to sell.

    May 23, 2026

    Beach Living Near Camp Lejeune

    Marine Corps Bases

    What is it like to live near the beach at Camp Lejeune? From housing costs to flood insurance and commute times, learn the best beach towns for military families renting or buying near base.

    May 19, 2026

    Updates on Military Spouse Employment, Licensing, and Entrepreneurship

    Military Life

    Learn about the latest efforts to support military spouse employment during PCS moves, including information about transferring licensure, reimbursement programs, and portable careers for military spo...

    May 16, 2026

    8 Key Tips for VA Loan Assumptions

    Home Financing

    A VA loan assumption can be a money saver if you're the right military home buyer. Here's what you need to know before starting the process.

    May 14, 2026

    10 Reasons Not to Sign a Lease

    Renting a Home

    What are red flags when signing a lease? Take a look at some questions to ask before renting a house.

    May 07, 2026

    Best Restaurants in Colorado Springs for Every Taste and Budget

    Travel Tips

    If you're lucky enough to be moving to Colorado Springs, then get excited because the foodie scene is alive and well. Find the best restaurants in Colorado Springs, from casual family-friendly spots t...

    May 04, 2026

    Military Spouse Employment & Education Resources (You Can Use Now!)

    Military Life

    Build your career from anywhere with these military spouse employment and education resources, including remote work, career development, and flexible learning options.

    April 28, 2026

    Renters Insurance vs. Landlord Insurance: What's Covered?

    Property Management

    Understand the key differences between renters and landlord insurance, including what each policy covers and common misconceptions.

    April 23, 2026

    My Home Is Under Contract: What's Next?

    Selling a Home

    Learn what to expect after your home goes under contract, including escrow accounts, closing costs, inspections, and the appraisal process.