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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 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.

    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.

    September 27, 2023

    Prep for the Holidays Now: A Month-by-Month Guide

    Military Life

    Don't let the holidays sneak up and cause stress. With this month-by-month guide, you'll prep for the holidays in no time!

    September 18, 2023

    Pro Real Estate Photo Tips for Selling or Renting Your Home

    Selling a Home

    Get fresh advice from a real estate photographer on how to truly capture the magic needed to sell or rent your home quickly and at asking price or better.

    September 13, 2023

    3 Networking Tools Every Military Spouse Freelancer Needs

    Military Life

    Discover the top three networking tools every freelance military spouse needs to succeed. Don't miss out on valuable opportunities to connect and grow your business!

    September 08, 2023

    Top 7 Things Military Families Love About Fort Hood, Texas

    Army Posts

    Discover the top 7 things military families love about Fort Hood, Texas! From its prime location in the Texas Hill Country to its affordable cost of living and abundance of activities, Fort Hood has i...

    September 04, 2023

    Fall Home Maintenance for Military Homeowners

    Home Maintenance

    Learn how to prepare your home for the fall season with these essential maintenance tasks. Whether you're a military homeowner settling in after a PCS move or preparing to sell or rent your home, thes...

    September 01, 2023

    Wood Flooring: A Trend That's Here to Stay

    Home Maintenance

    Discover the enduring popularity of wood flooring among renters and home buyers and why it's here to stay. From its historical origins to its aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, wood floors conti...

    August 30, 2023

    Is Your Exotic Pet Allowed in Military Housing?

    Military Life

    Is your exotic pet allowed in military housing? Learn about the pet policies of military housing companies and the considerations for emotional support animals.