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    Dawn M. Smith

    Dawn is a real estate and military life writer who has a serious HGTV habit. When she is not writing, her teen daughter, Army husband, and golden retriever keep her busy through chauffeur duties, travel planning, and long dog walks. Dawn is pleased to share her experiences with MilitaryByOwner readers who are hoping to simplify military family journeys of all kinds. Follow Dawn on Pinterest for more ideas and resources and visit her site at Dawn M. Smith Custom Content Creation.

    Posts By Dawn M. Smith

    April 03, 2024

    How to Declutter Before Your PCS Move

    PCS Moves

    Don't pack unwanted items for your next PCS! Learn how to decide whether to donate, sell, recycle, and trash the extra stuff you've found over years of military life.

    March 20, 2024

    Assessed vs. Appraised Home Value: What's the Difference?

    Selling a Home

    Assessed and appraised values affect your home's value, but in different ways. Read more about what military home sellers need to know to plan their sale.

    March 18, 2024

    What to Know for Your PCS Move to Hampton Roads, Virginia

    PCS Moves

    Master your PCS move to Hampton Roads, Virginia with valuable insights on popular cities, housing options, military bases, and family-friendly activities in the area.

    March 15, 2024

    Should I Have Renters Insurance in Military Housing?

    Renting a Home

    Do you need renters insurance if you're living in military housing? Stay protected and informed with our detailed guide.

    March 08, 2024

    What to Know for a Military Move to Alexandria, Virginia

    PCS Moves

    If a military move to the Alexandria area near Washington, DC, is in your future, here's the information you need before you PCS!

    March 06, 2024

    5 Top Rated Military RV Parks Across the U.S.

    Travel Tips

    Travel is one of the best perks of military service. Take advantage of some of the most popular military RV parks in California, Texas, Florida, Colorado, and Virginia.

    March 04, 2024

    What Is a Short Sale? A Guide for Military Home Sellers

    Selling a Home

    Have you considered a short sale of your home to mitigate the stress of home selling during a PCS? Here's what you need to know before starting the process.

    February 26, 2024

    Self-Management vs. Hiring a Property Manager for Your Rental

    PCS Moves

    Considering hiring a property manager for your rental property? Learn about the pros, cons, and fees involved in self-management vs. professional management in the military housing market.

    February 23, 2024

    4 Ways Military Renters Can Transform Their Home's Unused Space

    Home Decorating Ideas

    If your rental home has an unused room, don't waste the opportunity to transform it into a space your whole family will love. Turn that formal dining or living area into a room you'll actually use!

    February 16, 2024

    Should You Have a Home Inspection? 

    Selling a Home

    Should you have a home inspection when buying or selling a home? Find out why it's essential for both buyers and sellers to invest in a home inspection and how it can save you from costly repairs down...

    February 14, 2024

    Renters Insurance vs. Landlord Insurance: What's Covered?

    Property Management

    It's hard to sift through all the legalese out there when it concerns renters vs. landlord insurance. Let’s debunk some myths about insurance for both renters and landlords.

    February 12, 2024

    Easy DIY Kitchen and Bathroom Updates

    Home Maintenance

    Spruce up your kitchen and bathroom without breaking the bank! Check out these easy and affordable DIY updates that will transform your spaces.