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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

    April 10, 2023

    Tips and Tricks for a Successful PCS to Okinawa, Japan

    PCS Moves

    Is the military moving you to Okinawa, Japan? Lucky you! Get expert tips from military spouses who've been there before your PCS move.

    March 24, 2023

    Easy Ways to Add Curb Appeal Before Your Home Sale

    Selling a Home

    If you’re ready to start adding necessary curb appeal improvements for your home sale, start here for some direction and ideas.

    March 23, 2023

    What to Consider Before You Invest in a Vacation Home

    Property Management

    Wherever you intend to buy your vacation home, you need to dive into the reality of what it's like to be a vacation homeowner. You’ll put a lot of work in before ultimately enjoying that condo by the ...

    March 20, 2023

    My Home Is Under Contract: What's Next?

    Selling a Home

    Closing day is exciting, but what are the steps you need to know before you get there? Learn what to expect after the contract is signed.

    March 15, 2023

    Deployment Ahead: Should I Move Back Home or Stay Put?

    Military Life

    When faced with a deployment, the entire family must make a difficult decision. Should you move back "home" near family and friends where you have deployment support or stay put at your current locati...

    March 10, 2023

    Home Renovation Loans: Make Repairs on a Budget

    Home Buying

    Where do you find the money to buy a home and include the costs of the repairs and updates? With several options to choose from, whether rolling the repairs into your loan or utilizing a home renovati...

    March 01, 2023

    Home Renovation Reality: What Those Fix-Up Shows Don't Tell You

    Home Maintenance

    Watching home renovation shows on cable TV, it seems so easy to make upgrades or even flip a house! What's the reality behind the scenes?

    February 27, 2023

    10 Reasons Not to Sign a Lease

    Renting a Home

    What's a deal breaker for you before signing a lease? Take a look at some of the red flags you should pay attention to before deciding where you'll live for the next two to three years.

    February 15, 2023

    11 Common Issues Found During Home Inspections

    Selling a Home

    Don't let your home inspection derail your buyer's financing. Here are common issues to look for, whether the buyer is using a VA or conventional loan.

    February 06, 2023

    Learn the Secrets Home Stagers Use to Draw Buyers In

    Selling a Home

    Home staging is usually a big part of a home seller's prep. As a homebuyer, understand what features and concerns to take notice of behind a beautifully staged home!

    February 03, 2023

    What to Know About the 2023 Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act

    Military Life

    Get the latest news for military spouses transferring professional licenses with the new Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act and Military Spouse Licensure Reimbursement program.

    January 16, 2023

    2023 Real Estate Trends: What Military Home Sellers Need to Know

    Selling a Home

    Military home sellers, stay strong! If you market and price your home correctly in 2023, chances are that you'll find buyers in no time.