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.
November 08, 2019
Military Life
Across the country on and around November 11, local, state, and federal entities recognize the sacrifices of our veterans, and in some cases, honor their families as well. From local celebrations in s...
October 11, 2019
Navy Bases
To honor the Navy’s birthday, it’s a fitting celebratory measure that we take a look at the patriotic history of multiple versions of flags that have represented the U.S. Navy to date.
October 07, 2019
PCS Moves
Updated 2025. Beaches, day trips, tours, and more! Moving to the Norfolk, Virginia, area? We've created a list of sights to see and places to experience while you look for a home.
October 02, 2019
Renting a Home
Should you make updates to your rental home? What's the best process for handling the process with your landlord if you're paying for it yourself?
September 19, 2019
Military Life
If you’ve ever wished there was a point-by-point guide on where to live and how to make it happen--here it is! And it has everything you need to know about a move to Alexandria, especially for militar...
September 09, 2019
Army Posts
Fort Carson, Colorado, is a great location, especially if you love being outside. Take a tour of these homes near Fort Carson with amazing outdoor spaces!
September 04, 2019
Military Life
Has the back to school energy in the air have you thinking about heading back into the classroom yourself? Find out the latest about the GI Bill updates and other educational resources for veterans an...
July 23, 2019
Military Life
Find out about the latest changes regarding your VA home loan benefit. Significant changes in policy have increased the opportunity for military home buyers to achieve their home goals.
July 15, 2019
Army Posts
Moving to Fort Hood? Take a tour of homes for rent in popular Harker Heights, Texas!
July 08, 2019
PCS Moves
Facing a military move to Japan? Get practical tips and help about relocating to Japan from an experienced military spouse who's lived there!
June 19, 2019
Military Life
After reports of major issues with military family housing, what's next?
May 15, 2019
PCS Moves
For some, pets are family members, and planning for their move is almost as taxing as planning for a child. Some dogs need even more space! Start with these tips before your move with pets.