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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

    April 22, 2025

    Get to Know Fort Carson, Colorado

    Army Posts

    Year after year, Fort Carson is one of the Army’s most requested destinations. Here's what you need to know about this post and the Colorado Springs area.

    April 21, 2025

    14 Things to Know Before Moving to Fort Bragg

    Army Posts

    If it's your first time moving to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, a.k.a the Army’s mother ship, you’ve got some research to do. Start here!

    April 18, 2025

    PCS to Malmstrom AFB, Montana

    Air Force Bases

    Is your next PCS taking you to Malmstrom AFB? Whether you're already there or just arriving, find out more about Montana living.

    April 17, 2025

    What to Know Before You Buy a Historic Home

    Home Buying

    Discover the pros and cons of buying a historic home, from charming architecture to costly repairs, and learn how to prepare for a rewarding preservation journey.

    April 11, 2025

    The 9 Best Beaches to Visit in Virginia Beach

    Travel Tips

    Heading to Virginia Beach? From rocky beach fronts to sandy shores, there’s a beach to suit everyone's preference!

    April 07, 2025

    Options for Transporting Your Pet Overseas

    PCS Moves

    Explore safe and efficient options for transporting your pet overseas during a military PCS move, whether commercial airlines, military flights, or pet transport companies.

    April 04, 2025

    How to Virtually Stage Your Home Even if You're Tech-Challenged

    Selling a Home

    Considering DIY virtual home staging but worried about the DIY part? It could be the marketing tool you've been looking for, but there are some pros and cons.

    March 26, 2025

    What to Know Before a PCS Move to Fort Hood

    Army Posts

    Making a military move to Fort Hood, Texas? Review this guide to learn essential information about housing, employment, family information, things to do, and more.

    March 24, 2025

    3 Front Door Makeovers for Your Home Sale

    Selling a Home

    Boost your home's curb appeal and attract more buyers for a successful home sale with these three front door makeover ideas.

    March 21, 2025

    Is a Rental Investment near Fort Meade NSA, MD, a Good Idea?

    Property Management

    Are you thinking of buying an investment property near Fort Meade, Maryland? Learn about the areas surrounding Fort Meade and what factors to consider in your decision.

    March 15, 2025

    7 Unique Day Trips Near Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune

    Army Posts

    Discover seven unique day trips near Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. From exploring a historic lighthouse to going on a ghost tour, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

    March 13, 2025

    6 Important Marketing Strategies for Military Homes For Rent

    Property Management

    Effective marketing strategies for military homes for rent. Learn how to prepare your rental home and attract reliable tenants.