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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

    July 12, 2023

    5 Smart Hacks for New Military Homeowners

    Home Buying

    New homeowners have a lot to learn! We've rounded up the smartest hacks for understanding the practical components of homeownership.

    July 05, 2023

    5 Factors to Help Rank Your Rental Home Priorities

    Renting a Home

    Searching for a rental home during peak PCS season can be intense for military members and their families. Learn how to prioritize what you're looking for in your next rental home.

    June 30, 2023

    Texas Escapes: 3 Unforgettable Day Trips from Fort Hood

    Travel Tips

    Discover the perfect getaways from Fort Hood, Texas! From sun-soaked beaches to charming German heritage, experience the best of Texas in just a day.

    June 14, 2023

    5 Positive Traits Military Renters Look for in a Landlord

    Property Management

    Attention all landlords! Discover the five essential qualities military renters look for in a landlord. Ensure your rental home is a military-friendly property and make it easier for military families...

    June 12, 2023

    Top Destinations: Favorite Bases for Military Retirement

    Military Life

    Since you’re already pretty savvy about these popular locations for military retirees, we’ve dug into the interesting facts about how they’re ranked, the specific details about their amenities, and so...

    June 02, 2023

    Make Summer Home Maintenance Simple with These Tips

    Home Maintenance

    Breaking down summer maintenance tasks into hour, day, or weekend blocks of time eases the strain of trying to work a month’s worth of work into a week.

    May 19, 2023

    Get Outside Near Wright-Patterson AFB with These Don't-Miss Adventures

    Travel Tips

    Adventure awaits near WPAFB! Whether a hike, camping adventure, or week-long summer vacation near the water, you'll find it all near Wright-Patt.

    May 15, 2023

    Dog Breed Restrictions for On-Base Military Housing

    Military Life

    Is your family dog allowed in military housing? What can you do if you find your dog’s breed is on the banned breed list at your next duty station?

    May 12, 2023

    Tips for Buying a Home Long Distance

    Home Buying

    Why would you ever buy a home without seeing it first? Find out the reasons why and how to make it work if you're in that situation.

    May 08, 2023

    Remote Work Options for Military Spouses

    Military Life

    Military spouses, this your time to find the remote work you need and want! Find out which companies are building their remote military spouse workforces.

    May 01, 2023

    Our Latest Poll Reveals Your New Favorite Army Posts

    Army Posts

    MilitaryByOwner readers weighed in on their new favorite and most requested Army posts. Check out Fort Meade, Fort Sill, Fort Campbell, Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield and plan your next PCS mov...

    April 27, 2023

    Answer These Questions Before Buying a Home Overseas

    Home Buying

    Once you're stationed overseas, buying a home may seem appealing. Find out more about the process from someone who's been there before you take the leap.