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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

    November 20, 2023

    Smart Tips for Your Military Family's Holiday Travel

    Travel Tips

    As you plan your military family's travel over the upcoming holidays, make the most of these benefits and discounts!

    November 20, 2023

    Friendsgiving: The Best Part of Thanksgiving!

    Military Life

    Is your military family far from home? Or would you rather celebrate the holidays with friends? Learn how to create your best Friendsgiving ever.

    November 17, 2023

    Spring Home Buying: How to Prep Now

    Home Buying

    It might be months away, but spring will be here in flash. Here's how military buyers can prepare to buy a home before PCS season.

    November 16, 2023

    How to Throw a Fabulous Holiday Party...So You Enjoy It, Too!

    Military Life

    Every host goes through the push and pull of whether or not to plan a get-together over the holidays. Use these time and money saving techniques to lessen the anxiety provoked from entertaining over t...

    November 13, 2023

    Simple and Inexpensive Thanksgiving Tablescaping Ideas

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Creativity in short supply? Use these easy and budget-friendly tips to create your own unique Thanksgiving table decor.

    November 10, 2023

    13 Easy Ways to Prep for Holiday Guests

    Military Life

    Learn how to make your guests feel at home during the holidays with these 13 easy tips. Use this checklist to create a cozy and welcoming space for your loved ones.

    November 01, 2023

    3 Ways to Convince Your Landlord to Let You Upgrade

    Home Maintenance

    Want to make some changes or upgrades to the house you're renting? Convince your landlord to let you DIY!

    October 27, 2023

    Dear Future Tenant, Here's What I Need from You

    Property Management

    Learn what landlords expect from potential military tenants. From taking care of the property to being upfront about pets, learn how to do your part in creating a positive and respectful landlord/tena...

    October 11, 2023

    Understanding the VA Vendee Loan Program

    Home Financing

    Learn about the VA Vendee Loan Program, an affordable financing option for homebuyers who don't qualify for a VA loan. Discover the benefits and guidelines of this program, as well as potential downsi...

    October 06, 2023

    Dear Future Landlord, Here’s What We Need from You

    Property Management

    Dear military landlords, here's what your future tenants wish they could tell you.

    October 04, 2023

    It’s Time to Freshen Up Your Fall Decorating

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Fall home decorating doesn't mean only pumpkins and gourds. Try your hand at some of these creative ideas from MilitaryByOwner's resident decorating guru!

    September 29, 2023

    6 Essential Tips for Selling Your House During the Off Season

    Selling a Home

    Learn six go-to tips for successfully selling your home during the off-season, especially if you're a military homeowner facing a sudden move. Get valuable advice for a smooth and successful sale.