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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

    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.

    July 07, 2025

    3 Common Misconceptions about the Military Clause

    Property Management

    Understanding the differences between the SCRA and military clauses in a lease can help both military renters and landlords navigate their obligations and rights.

    July 03, 2025

    What to Know for a PCS Move to Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling

    Air Force Bases

    Essential information for your PCS move to Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, including housing, schools, and local activities in Washington, DC, and surrounding area.

    June 27, 2025

    Moving to Maxwell Air Force Base? Explore These Area Communities

    Air Force Bases

    Explore popular communities near Maxwell AFB, including Montgomery, Prattville, Millbrook, and Wetumpka. Find homes for sale or rent near Maxwell AFB.

    June 26, 2025

    Comparing Conventional and VA Home Loans for Military Homebuyers

    Home Financing

    What are your home financing options as a military homebuyer? Explore the key differences between conventional and VA home loans and make an informed decision.

    June 24, 2025

    Free Yard Care for Deployed Troops

    Military Life

    Discover how GreenCare and SnowCare for Troops provide free lawn and snow services to families going through military deployment, plus how you can get involved.

    June 23, 2025

    Popular Pentagon Housing Options in Arlington, Alexandria & Fairfax

    Renting a Home

    Explore these Pentagon housing options in Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax, Virginia, offering ideal commutes, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities for military families.

    June 20, 2025

    11 Essentials for Your Rental Home Binder

    Property Management

    Landlords, make it easy on yourself and your tenants by providing all the need-to-know information about property upkeep for your rental.

    June 14, 2025

    4 Farmers Markets and Fresh Food Stands Near NAS Pensacola

    Navy Bases

    Summer is synonymous with fresh food markets across the country. In Florida, there’s an extra bounty of produce and local seafood near Pensacola NAS housing.

    June 13, 2025

    Favorite Places to Eat & Drink in Montgomery, AL

    Air Force Bases

    Visit these popular coffee shops, bakeries, and bars in Montgomery, AL, from cozy cafes to vibrant breweries, perfect for every craving and occasion.