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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

    August 29, 2022

    Must-Do Adventures on I-70 From Utah to Maryland

    Travel Tips

    Driving between Utah and Maryland on I-70 isn't quick, but with this list of things to do along the way, you can make your PCS road trip fun and exciting.

    August 12, 2022

    15 Easy Ways to Make Connections at Your Child's New School

    Military Life

    If you’re looking to make fast friends and connections in your community, look no further than your children’s schools. It’s the easiest place to meet friends and neighbors with like-minded goals: imp...

    July 22, 2022

    6 Tips to Help You Find the Right Roommate

    Renting a Home

    Looking for a roommate for your rental to help share expenses? Start with this checklist!

    June 01, 2022

    Where to Live After Military Retirement: Home Search Tips

    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...

    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 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

    7 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 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 16, 2022

    Understanding the Most Common Real Estate Contingencies

    Selling a Home

    Chalk real estate contingencies up to another concept you’ll learn about during a home sale process. Contingencies not only protect home buyers during negotiations, but also sellers.

    March 07, 2022

    Should You Invest in a Rental Property Near Fort Hood?

    Army Posts

    An unwavering real estate craze has taken over the U.S. in recent months. Even military members who’ve never considered real estate investing are buying rental properties in the cities surrounding For...

    February 21, 2022

    9 Can't-Miss Hiking Trails Near Camp Pendleton, California

    Travel Tips

    Love hiking and headed to the San Diego area? You won't want to miss these trails near Camp Pendleton!