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    Dawn M. Smith

    Dawn is a real estate and military life writer who has a serious HGTV habit. When she is not writing, her teen daughter, Army husband, and golden retriever keep her busy through chauffeur duties, travel planning, and long dog walks. Dawn is pleased to share her experiences with MilitaryByOwner readers who are hoping to simplify military family journeys of all kinds. Follow Dawn on Pinterest for more ideas and resources and visit her site at Dawn M. Smith Custom Content Creation.

    Posts By Dawn M. Smith

    April 10, 2023

    Tips and Tricks for a Successful PCS to Okinawa, Japan

    PCS Moves

    Is the military moving you to Okinawa, Japan? Lucky you! Get expert tips from military spouses who've been there before your PCS move.

    April 03, 2023

    The Top Improvements You Should Make Before Your Home Sale

    Selling a Home

    If the time right to sell your home, you need expert advice before you take on home improvement plans. These are the best projects for earning the most money.

    March 24, 2023

    Easy Ways to Add Curb Appeal Before Your Home Sale

    Selling a Home

    If you’re ready to start adding necessary curb appeal improvements for your home sale, start here for some direction and ideas.

    March 23, 2023

    What to Consider Before You Invest in a Vacation Home

    Property Management

    Wherever you intend to buy your vacation home, you need to dive into the reality of what it's like to be a vacation homeowner. You’ll put a lot of work in before ultimately enjoying that condo by the ...

    March 20, 2023

    My Home Is Under Contract: What's Next?

    Selling a Home

    Closing day is exciting, but what are the steps you need to know before you get there? Learn what to expect after the contract is signed.

    March 15, 2023

    Deployment Ahead: Should I Move Back Home or Stay Put?

    Military Life

    When faced with a deployment, the entire family must make a difficult decision. Should you move back "home" near family and friends where you have deployment support or stay put at your current locati...

    March 10, 2023

    Home Renovation Loans: Make Repairs on a Budget

    Home Buying

    Where do you find the money to buy a home and include the costs of the repairs and updates? With several options to choose from, whether rolling the repairs into your loan or utilizing a home renovati...

    March 01, 2023

    Home Renovation Reality: What Those Fix-Up Shows Don't Tell You

    Home Maintenance

    Watching home renovation shows on cable TV, it seems so easy to make upgrades or even flip a house! What's the reality behind the scenes?

    February 27, 2023

    10 Reasons Not to Sign a Lease

    Renting a Home

    What's a deal breaker for you before signing a lease? Take a look at some of the red flags you should pay attention to before deciding where you'll live for the next two to three years.

    February 17, 2023

    What Renters Should Know About Tenant Screening

    Renting a Home

    For military families, finding a rental home is stressful for many reasons. But one matter could block you from moving into the perfect rental home: tenant screening.

    February 16, 2023

    6 Tips for Your First For Sale By Owner (FSBO)

    Selling a Home

    Are you on the fence, trying to decide whether or not to list your property as a For Sale By Owner? It's a tough call, especially for first time For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sellers. Start here!

    February 15, 2023

    11 Common Issues Found During Home Inspections

    Selling a Home

    Don't let your home inspection derail your buyer's financing. Here are common issues to look for, whether the buyer is using a VA or conventional loan.