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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

    August 15, 2024

    The Best Beaches Near Military Towns

    Travel Tips

    Is your next PCS taking you to a coast? Lucky you! Discover the best beaches near military installations.

    August 12, 2024

    12 Museums to Visit in Alexandria, Virginia

    Military Life

    Whether you're looking to become acquainted with your new hometown or planning an outing, here's a list of easy-to-get-to museums in Alexandria, Virginia.

    August 09, 2024

    Easy Ideas for a Back-to-School Kids’ Closet Redo

    Home Maintenance

    Revamp your kids' closet for back-to-school! Get inspired and find tips to clean, organize, and add fun touches.

    August 02, 2024

    Fun Stops for the Whole Family on I-90 from Seattle to Boston

    Travel Tips

    Military families travel across I-90 every day. Choose from these fun stops between Seattle and Boston to make a pit stop, take a break, or spend a few nights.

    July 29, 2024

    A Back-to-School Guide for Military Families

    Military Life

    We're sharing back-to-school tips for military families, from educational resources to PCS support and savings opportunities. Prepare for a successful school year with expert advice.

    July 26, 2024

    Top 5 DON'TS for an Open House

    Selling a Home

    When it comes to home selling, marketing is a huge component. Don't make these mistakes when you hold your open house!

    July 24, 2024

    Tips for Living On or Off Base in Okinawa

    Military Life

    If Okinawa is your overseas PCS destination, you’re going to have questions, especially about where you'll be living. Start here for helpful information for living both on and off base in Okinawa. 

    July 22, 2024

    Just Moved? Try These Ideas to Explore Your New Duty Station

    PCS Moves

    Discover how to turn your new duty station into a home with these fun and practical tips for military families. Settling in has never been easier!

    July 15, 2024

    Quick and Easy Tips for Decorating Military Housing

    Home Decorating Ideas

    Quick tips for military families on decorating their housing without making permanent changes. Learn how to personalize your space and make it feel like home with these easy and temporary decor ideas.

    July 10, 2024

    How to Stay Organized While Unpacking Your New Home

    PCS Moves

    Is there anything more daunting than seeing your new home cluttered with boxes? Use these organizational tips help you unpack and settle in.

    June 24, 2024

    What to Know for Your PCS Move to Fort Sam Houston

    PCS Moves

    Have PCS orders to Fort Sam Houston? Military families love base amenities and the location near San Antonio, Texas.

    June 17, 2024

    8 Lessons for a First-Time Landlord

    Property Management

    Whether you find yourself an unexpected landlord due to military orders or you've purchased a property intending to rent it out, you should know a few things before you ask your first tenants to sign ...