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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

    June 23, 2022

    11 Essentials for Your Rental Home Binder

    Home Maintenance

    Landlords, make it easy on yourself and your tenants by providing a rental home binder listing all the need-to-know information about your property.

    June 01, 2022

    Where to Live After Military Retirement: Tips for Starting Your Home S...

    Military Life

    No matter your final destination as you face military retirement, you’ll need somewhere to live. Use these tips to find your forever home in a state that has the perfect quality of life and finance-fr...

    May 26, 2022

    7 Ways to Make Sure You Get Your Security Deposit Back

    Renting a Home

    Everyone wants their security and pet deposits back after moving out of a rental home. Learn what to do to make sure you receive it in full.

    April 27, 2022

    Should You Refinance Your Mortgage to Pay Off Debt?

    Home Financing

    Refinancing your home could help you pay off your debts, but not always. You'll have to run the numbers with mortgage professionals to make a good decision.

    April 22, 2022

    8 Decorating Tricks for Awkward Spaces

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Choosing home décor for an awkward space can be a challenge! Use these tips for making the most of your square footage.

    April 15, 2022

    Ease the PCS Transition with the Youth Sponsorship Program

    Military Life

    The Youth Sponsorship Program is designed to help military kids feel less alone during the transition of PCS.

    April 11, 2022

    Your PCS Move to Fort Eisenhower (Formerly Fort Gordon), Georgia

    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.

    April 04, 2022

    8 Restaurants to Try in Springfield, Virginia

    Military Life

    What more could you want than great neighbors, good schools, and an easy commute? The answer is— delicious food! Springfield, Virginia, delivers not only the national chains you’ve depended on during ...

    March 28, 2022

    5 Top Yoga Studios Near Naval Station Newport

    Navy Bases

    It's the little things about your new city that really make or break a new duty station—little things like the perfect yoga studio. Try out these fan favorite yoga studios near Naval Station Newport!

    March 25, 2022

    Everything You Need to Know Before Your First PCS Move

    PCS Moves

    Your very first PCS move is a time when the phrase, you don’t know what you don’t know, pretty much sums up all the feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. Start here to conquer your military move with s...

    March 23, 2022

    Househunting Tips for Military Home Buyers and Renters

    Renting a Home

    As a military family, it's important to consider all the factors involved in a home search. Here’s a list of three solid strategies to prepare for finding a house.

    March 21, 2022

    What to Know Before You Buy a Historic Home

    Home Buying

    Are you thinking of buying a historic home? The pros and cons of a historic home purchase seem to be evenly split, but you should certainly know your reno/rehab personality before digging in.