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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 24, 2024

    3 Reasons to Buy a Home in the Winter

    Home Buying

    Considering buying a home in winter? Learn why serious buyers should take advantage of a winter home sale market.

    January 19, 2024

    6 Ideas to Beat the Winter Blues on Whidbey Island, WA

    Travel Tips

    Stationed on Whidbey Island? Don’t worry about wasting a day on the couch because it's too cold or windy outside. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the area from the comfort of the indoors!

    January 15, 2024

    2024 Real Estate Trends: What Military Members Need to Know

    Selling a Home

    What can military families expect if they're looking to buy, sell, or rent a home in 2024? Learn how the latest real estate trends will affect you as consider the best decision for your military housi...

    January 12, 2024

    Use Color to Transform Your Bedroom Decor

    Home Decorating Ideas

    If your bedroom is always the last room you get to when unpacking and decorating your house, start with something easy--color!

    January 11, 2024

    Discover Your Home Decorating Style with These 5 Questions

    Home Decorating Ideas

    It can be a challenge for military families to settle on a specific style for home decor due to their often nomadic lifestyle. Start here to hone in on your personal style!

    January 10, 2024

    10 Essential Fireplace Safety Tips

    Home Maintenance

    We're sharing answers to common questions about fireplace safety, including how to check for safety, when to have it professionally cleaned, and what type of firewood to use. Ensure your family's safe...

    January 08, 2024

    Home Design Trends for Military Families in 2024

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Discover the latest home design trends for military families on a budget. From sustainable furniture to warm earthy colors, these ideas will help you create a cozy and stylish space no matter where yo...

    January 04, 2024

    12 Facts You Didn't Know About Alexandria, Virginia

    Military Life

    Even if you've been in Alexandria, VA for a while, there's always something new to learn! Test your knowledge with these fun and historical facts.

    December 29, 2023

    Transform Your Spare Room: Ideas to Maximize Space & Style

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Have a spare room? Lucky you! Make the best use of this space with these design ideas that will help you use this room for more than just guests.

    December 27, 2023

    How to Decorate Your Living Room

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Love home decorating or hate it? In the end, we all eat nachos, watch football, and take naps in our living rooms, so make it somewhere you want to hang out and live your life at home.

    December 16, 2023

    7 Unique & Budget-Friendly Holiday Hostess Gift Ideas

    Military Life

    Ditch the bottle of wine this year and try one of these unique, easy, and budget-conscious holiday hostess gift ideas instead!

    December 15, 2023

    Should Renters Have a Pet Resume?

    Renting a Home

    Military renters move often, so we need an upper hand to find a rental house that accepts animals. A pet resume might be the tool that wins the contract.