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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

    December 18, 2024

    5 Reasons Buying a Home in Winter Is Better Than Summer

    Home Buying

    Buying a home in the winter can be a great decision for military buyers. Learn about some of the best benefits for buying in the off-season.

    December 13, 2024

    9 Ways to Simplify the Holiday Season

    Military Life

    Simplify the holiday season with these ideas, from focusing on family traditions to reducing gift-giving. Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season!

    December 04, 2024

    Make Your DC Commute Easy with Condo Living

    Home Buying

    Moving to the Pentagon or a military base in the Washington, DC, area? Condo living may be for you.

    December 01, 2024

    6 Things to Do In Fort Belvoir's Backyard

    Army Posts

    Find activies in Fort Belvoir's backyard, from historic tours to outdoor adventures, perfect for military families and visitors alike.

    November 27, 2024

    9 Key Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home

    Home Buying

    Are you ready to buy a home? Before you dive into the home buying process, ask these important questions about your finances, target neighborhoods, and future plans.

    November 20, 2024

    How to Know You Need a New Property Manager

    Property Management

    Managing your rental property from afar can be a headache. What should you do if the relationship with your property manager just isn't working out?

    November 11, 2024

    How To Buy A Foreclosed Home

    Home Buying

    Learn the steps, challenges, and opportunities involved in buying a foreclosed home, especially for military members using VA loans.

    November 06, 2024

    9 Best Date Night Ideas in Washington, DC

    Military Life

    Stationed at Fort Belvoir, JB Anacostia-Bolling, or another Washington, DC base? You're in the perfect area for a memorable date night.

    November 01, 2024

    7 Best Beaches of Whidbey Island, Washington

    Navy Bases

    Discover the top seven must-visit beaches near NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, perfect for relaxation, hiking, and enjoying stunning views.

    October 28, 2024

    What You Need to Know for Your PCS to the Pentagon

    PCS Moves

    A PCS move to the Pentagon requires a lot of information since it's such a unique duty station, from finding a home to getting around the DC area. Here's everything you need to know.

    October 23, 2024

    Should I Repaint Before Selling My Home?

    Selling a Home

    Should I repaint my house before selling it? Learn why updating exterior and interior paint is a proven home selling strategy.

    October 04, 2024

    Creative Fall Home Decor for Military Housing and Rentals

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Take fall home decor in your military housing or rental home to the next level with these creative tips for dressing up unexpected spaces.