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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

    August 09, 2025

    It’s Time to Freshen Up Your Fall Home Decor

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Fall home decorating doesn't mean only pumpkins and gourds. Try your hand at some of these creative ideas from MilitaryByOwner's resident decorating guru!

    August 05, 2025

    20 Fun Facts About Fort Hood

    Army Posts

    Are you making a PCS to Texas? Discover 20 fun facts about Fort Hood, from housing and local life to hidden gems, before your move to the Great Place.

    August 04, 2025

    Affordable Home Decor Ideas for Military Families on the Move

    PCS Moves

    Affordable home decor ideas for military families. Discover budget-friendly tips to personalize your space, repurpose items, and get creative with what you already own.

    August 01, 2025

    What Renters Should Know About Tenant Screening

    Renting a Home

    Landlords use tenant screening tools to find tenants, including a background check for renters. Learn what to expect.

    July 28, 2025

    Maximize Curb Appeal and Photos: Key Tips for Selling Your House

    Selling a Home

    Maximize your home's sale potential with tips on curb appeal, interior updates, and professional photography. Get your house ready to attract the best buyers and highest offers.

    July 25, 2025

    Personalize Military Housing or Rentals with Easy Decor Ideas

    Home Decorating Ideas

    You don't have to succumb to beige carpet and white, bare walls. Use these tips to inspire your home decorating for a rental or military housing!

    July 22, 2025

    What Landlords and Tenants Should Know Before the Eviction Notice

    Property Management

    Whether you're a landlord or a renter, it's important to know the facts of what's actually involved in the eviction process and termination of lease. What's legal and what's not?

    July 19, 2025

    Things to Do with the Whole Family in Hampton Roads, Virginia

    Military Life

    A PCS move to Hampton Roads, Virginia, means there's plenty of family-friendly events. Explore beaches, museums, and everything in between and find plenty of things to do in Hampton Roads!

    July 16, 2025

    What to Know for Your PCS to Maxwell Air Force Base and Gunter Annex

    Air Force Bases

    Are you making a PCS move to Maxwell AFB or Gunter Annex near Montgomery, Alabama? Here's a roundup of info about the area, including housing, schools, and local attractions.

    July 14, 2025

    The Top Improvements You Should Make Before Your Home Sale

    PCS Moves

    If you need tips for selling your house, here's expert advice before you take on home improvement plans. Consider these projects for the biggest return on your investment.

    July 11, 2025

    Exploring Fort Hood Neighborhoods

    Army Posts

    Moving to Fort Hood? Before you arrive, explore the neighborhoods and Fort Hood homes for sale and rent in the surrounding area.

    July 09, 2025

    7 Popular Restaurants in Prattville, Alabama

    Air Force Bases

    You'll need to eat while home shopping in Prattville, Alabama. Try these restaurants for the best of what locals love to eat near Maxwell AFB.