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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

    January 10, 2022

    2022 Housing Market Trends for Military Members

    Selling a Home

    If you look on the bright side, the nationwide real estate market is poised to benefit both military home buyers and sellers in 2022.  Here's what you need to know.

    December 03, 2021

    What to Know About Being a Geo-Bachelor

    Military Life

    It's not rare for a military member to live as a geo-bachelor for a time. If your family is currently going through a geographical separation, here's what you need to know!

    November 15, 2021

    What to Expect for Your PCS Move to NAS Lemoore

    Navy Bases

    Do you want to know what Naval Air Station Lemoore is all about? Here's everything you need to know before your PCS move: location, things to do, housing, and more.

    November 08, 2021

    What to Know About Living in Springfield, Virginia

    Military Life

    Springfield, Virginia, is a go-to city for military families headed to the Washington, D.C. area. Check out some of the reasons why.

    October 22, 2021

    3 Ways to Deck Out Your Walls for Fall

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Fall is a great time to switch up your home decor, add plushness for the cold weather ahead, or try out a new trend. Try these decorating ideas for homeowners and renters alike!

    October 04, 2021

    Interesting and Unique Things to Do in Arlington, Virginia

    Military Life

    Arlington, Virginia, is one of the best places to live near Washington, D.C. Before your PCS, take a look at some of the best traditional and not-so-traditional things to do in Arlington.

    September 20, 2021

    17 Things to Know About Your PCS to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia

    Navy Bases

    Moving to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia? This list will help you settle in, find a home, and connect with plenty of activities!

    September 10, 2021

    How to Find the Best School Solution for Your Military Kids

    Military Life

    Whether it's a new school year or your military kids are moving mid-year, school concerns are part of a PCS move. We’ve got answers and resources to help military families find their best educational ...

    September 06, 2021

    Explore San Antonio's River Walk

    Travel Tips

    See why everyone talks about the great River Walk in San Antonio, Texas. It has all the things to do you're looking for: entertainment, shopping and dining.

    August 18, 2021

    What to Know About Beach Living Near Camp Lejeune

    Marine Corps Bases

    So you’re thinking a PCS move to Camp Lejeune is the perfect time to try the beach lifestyle. It’s true! There are plenty of options: rent, buy a primary residence, or buy a house with rental income i...

    August 02, 2021

    What to Know for a PCS Move to NAS Patuxent River, MD

    Navy Bases

    Get to know Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland before your PCS move. You'll love access to the Patuxent River, the Chesapeake Bay, and small town charm near the base.

    July 16, 2021

    PCS to Naval Base Kitsap

    Navy Bases

    Does your future include a PCS move to Naval Base Kitsap? Find the info you need for your family's transition to the area.