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.
January 22, 2026
Selling a Home
Navigate PCS moves and local housing dynamics with expert insights and practical tips. We're covering the 2026 real estate market trends for military buyers, sellers, and renters.
January 19, 2026
Selling a Home
Selling your home? Learn practical tips for selling your house, including costs, staging advice, and what to expect before you list.
January 14, 2026
PCS Moves
Planning a military move to Hanscom AFB? Get tips on housing, local attractions, and amenities for a smooth transition to this historic Massachusetts base.
January 08, 2026
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.