Organizing Team Gear: How To Keep Group Uniforms, Pom Poms, And Accessories Tidy

Being part of a team is an important part of healthy development for kids. Studies show that participating in groups such as cheerleading, competitive sports, and clubs helps kids learn to better interact with peers, experience both wins and losses, work out differences, and more. But these fun and healthy activities present some fairly serious organizational challenges for parents and coaches who keep team gear at home. 

Between items such as uniforms, shoes, hair and makeup accessories, and cheer poms, it’s important to get a handle on it so things don’t — literally — start piling up! When you learn to successfully corral everything, you’ll be able to happily take advantage of extra gear and cheer uniforms for sale without worrying about where you’ll store it all once you get home. 

Start With a Defined Drop Zone 

Choose one space in the house where all team gear will live. That might be a spot near the entryway, a corner of a bedroom, or a section of the laundry room. Keep it small and clearly defined. Use a basket for each child, a set of labeled hooks, or even a cube organizer with bins. Once that zone is in place, it becomes the go-to spot for uniforms, practice clothes, and accessories — no more gear drifting across every room. 

Use Clear Storage and Simple Labels 

Uniforms and cheer gear tend to include small parts that are easy to lose: bows, socks, hair ties, safety pins. Use clear plastic bins or drawers so you can see what’s inside without digging. Create broad categories such as “Uniform Pieces,” “Shoes,” or “Extras,” and label each one. The goal is quick access and low effort, especially for those many times when you’re heading out the door and don’t have time to hunt for the right socks. 

Make Hanging Space Work Harder 

Uniforms stay in better shape, and less wrinkly, when hung up, and that also keeps them out of piles. If you’re tight on closet space, consider a hanging rack behind a door or a tension rod in an unused nook. Assign a hanger for each event type (practice, competition, or game day) and keep those outfits laundered, rotated, and ready. 

Make a “Go Bag” 

Scrambling should take place on the sports field, not in the kitchen. Get your team player their own large “go bag” and stock it with event-day essentials. This would be all the things that your busy child goes looking for at the last minute. Think extra hair ties, safety pins, snacks, and backup uniforms, cheer poms, socks, mouth guards, etc. For extra points, take it a step further and print a checklist and tuck it inside the bag’s front pocket. After each event, restock what’s missing. This small step prevents last-minute rushing. 

Reset Weekly to Avoid Pileups 

At the end of each week, take 10 minutes to reset the system. Toss dirty items in the wash, put everything back in its labeled place, and clear out any items that snuck into the wrong bin. A weekly reset is more manageable than waiting for the clutter to take over. If kids are old enough, involve them in the process. They’ll be more likely to stick with the system if they help maintain it. 

Rotate Seasonally 

Once the season wraps up, pack away the gear in a labeled bin. Include everything from uniforms to bows so you’re not digging through offseason items when the next activity starts. Store the bin somewhere accessible, like a closet shelf or under a bed. When the next season begins, you’ll know exactly where to find what you need and what still fits. 

A Little Structure Saves a Lot of Stress 

Organizing team gear doesn’t require fancy containers or a full closet makeover. It just needs a simple structure that everyone in the household can follow. When uniforms have a place, accessories are easy to grab, and bags are prepped in advance, daily routines run smoother and faster, relieving stress and the need to try and save time getting there in the car or racing onto the field. 

Not only will your home feel more organized, but your child will feel more confident heading into practices and events knowing exactly where everything is and that they have all their essentials on hand. And that’s a win for your team! 

AUTHOR BIO: Jennifer Cronin is Vice President of Cheerleading Company, Inc., a Dallas-based manufacturer and retailer of custom cheerleading and dance uniforms, apparel, and accessories. With more than 25 years of tenure, Cronin oversees all facets of the company with a customer-centric approach. 

Sources: 

https://www.varsity.com/news/benefits-of-cheer/ 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9180162/ 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3751802/ 

The Most Common Types of Loans for Real Estate Investors

Real estate investing can build substantial wealth, but many investors need financing at some point. Unlike traditional homebuyers, real estate investors have access to specialized loan products designed for investment properties.

These are the most common types of loans for real estate investors, each offering excellent terms for property owners who need additional cash flow.

Conventional Investment Property Loans

Conventional loans from banks and credit unions are the most popular choice for real estate investors. These loans follow guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, offering predictable terms and competitive rates for qualified borrowers.

Investment property conventional loans typically require 20–25% down payments, which are significantly higher than owner-occupied properties. These loans work best for investors with strong credit profiles who plan to hold properties long-term. The application process takes 30–45 days, making conventional loans less suitable for competitive markets where quick closings matter.

Hard Money Loans

Hard money loans provide fast financing secured by real estate value rather than borrower creditworthiness. Private lenders or investor groups fund these short-term loans, typically lasting 6–24 months.

Hard money lenders can approve and fund loans within days, making them ideal for auction purchases, fix-and-flip projects, or competitive bidding situations. Real estate investors commonly use hard money loans as bridge financing. They purchase and renovate properties with hard money, then refinance into conventional loans once improvements are complete.

Private Money Loans

Private lenders might include friends, family members, other real estate investors, or individuals seeking higher returns than traditional investments provide. These arrangements offer maximum flexibility in terms, structure, and approval criteria.

Terms are negotiated directly between parties, allowing for creative structures that benefit both the borrower and lender. Private money credit decisions vary based on the relationship, risk level, and local market conditions.

Portfolio Loans

Portfolio loans come from banks that keep mortgages on their books instead of selling them to government-sponsored enterprises. This approach allows banks to create their own underwriting guidelines, often resulting in more flexible terms for borrowers.

Local and regional banks frequently offer portfolio loans to build relationships with real estate investors in their market areas. They may accept lower credit scores, higher debt-to-income ratios, or unique property types that don’t meet conventional loan standards. These loans particularly benefit investors who own multiple properties.

Commercial Loans

Commercial loans finance larger investment properties or multiple properties bundled together. Commercial lenders evaluate both the borrower’s financial strength and the property’s income-generating potential.

Terms on commercial loans differ from residential financing. Loan periods often range from 5–20 years, with many featuring balloon payments requiring refinancing. Interest rates may be fixed or variable, depending on the loan structure. These loans suit investors with substantial portfolios or those purchasing larger properties.

The most common types of loans for real estate investors offer key benefits that are not available elsewhere. The best type depends on your investment strategy, financial situation, and the state of the property.

Everything You Need To Know About Owning a Pole Barn

Pole barns have become increasingly popular among property owners seeking versatile, cost-effective building solutions. This construction method eliminates the need for a traditional concrete foundation, making it both faster and more affordable to build.

Here, we’ll explore everything you need to know about owning a pole barn to help you make informed decisions every step of the way.

What Exactly Is a Pole Barn?

A pole barn is a building constructed using the post-frame method where large wooden posts serve as the primary structural support. These posts, typically made from treated lumber, are embedded directly into the ground at depths ranging from four to eight feet, depending on local building codes and soil conditions.

The posts support horizontal beams called girts, which in turn support the roof trusses. This creates a framework that can span large distances without interior support columns, providing maximum usable space inside. The exterior is then clad with metal siding and roofing materials, though other options are available.

5 Key Benefits of Pole Barn Ownership

Owning a pole barn offers various benefits, including:

• Versatility: These structures can serve numerous purposes, including storage, workshops, garages, event spaces, and even residential buildings.

• Durability: Pole barns are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, offering long-lasting protection for your belongings or activities.

• Quick construction: Post-frame buildings can be assembled quickly and efficiently, reducing labor costs and construction time.

• Spacious interiors: The absence of interior load-bearing walls allows for large, open spaces that can be tailored to specific needs.

• Customizability: The design and materials used for pole barns can easily be customized to match aesthetic preferences or practical requirements.

Planning and Construction

Building a pole barn requires careful planning and execution to ensure a sturdy, functional structure. Start by selecting an appropriate location with solid ground and good drainage to prevent water damage. Next, design a layout tailored to your intended use, factoring in dimensions, access points, and any additional features such as lofts or partitions.

Once your plans are finalized, acquire high-quality materials, including treated posts, durable metal panels, and proper hardware. During construction, ensure accurate post spacing and alignment, as these will provide the structural framework for the entire barn. Finally, knowing what season is best to start your pole barn build will ensure there are no interruptions or delays.

Maintenance and Longevity

Pole barns require less maintenance than many building types, but regular inspections are still necessary to prevent small issues from becoming expensive problems. Check the posts, foundation, roof, gutters, and siding annually to inspect for mold, rot, and insect infestations.

Proper ventilation prevents condensation that can damage stored items and building materials. Be sure to seal gaps where rodents might enter, keep vegetation trimmed away from the building, and address any wood damage promptly.

Pole barns offer compelling advantages for many property owners, but they’re not the right solution for everyone. By considering everything you need to know about owning a pole barn, you can decide whether you should invest in one yourself.

Physical Vs. Virtual Staging: Which Saves More Time And Space?

We partnered with a real estate company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Imagine scrolling through a real estate listing. The rooms are empty. It’s hard to picture where the couch would go. The space feels cold, maybe even smaller than it is. 

Now, flip to another listing. The same room is filled with cozy furniture, art on the walls, and soft lighting. Suddenly, the space feels alive. That’s the power of staging.

But here’s the big question—do you need to haul furniture in to make that happen? Or is there a faster, cleaner way to show your home’s full potential? Let’s break down both methods and see which one truly saves time and space.

What Is Physical Staging?

Physical staging is the traditional route. It involves renting furniture, hiring a stager, and setting everything up in person. Tables, chairs, rugs, lamps—it all gets moved in to make the space feel lived in. This method has its perks. Buyers walking through an open house can touch, see, and feel the room's setup. It creates a real-world vibe.

But here’s the downside:

• It takes days, sometimes weeks, to coordinate.

• You may need to move out your own furniture or personal items.

• Large rental items need to be stored and transported.

• The cost isn’t small—and it adds up quickly.

For homes that are already furnished or for high-end luxury listings, physical presentation can make sense. But for others, it can feel like a mountain of work just to list a home.

What Is Virtual Staging?

This one’s much easier—and quicker. This happens completely online. Staggers take real photos of your rooms and then digitally add furniture, rugs, wall art, and more. You’re not touching a single piece of furniture, yet your listing gets a fully styled look. And with many Professional Virtual Staging Services available, you’ll get access to fast edits, realistic designs, and custom setups. They reflect the actual space—not just generic templates that feel out of place for the home’s layout or location.

Here’s more on why many homeowners and real estate agents are choosing this route:

• No furniture rental, movers, or packing.

• Just send in the photos, and get beautifully staged images in return.

• You can choose different styles and update them with a click.

• It’s perfect for online listings where photos make the first impression.

This method helps you market your space without disrupting your daily routine. And for buyers scrolling through listings, it creates an instant connection. 

Time-Saving Comparison

Physical presentation can take a serious time. From booking a stager to moving out existing furniture and bringing in new pieces, the process can stretch out for days or even weeks.

Virtual staging? It can happen in just a few days. Once the photos are taken, the rest happens behind the scenes. No disruptions at home or waiting for furniture deliveries. Just fast, professional visuals, often ready in 48 to 72 hours.

If you're on a deadline to sell—or just want to get your listing live without delay—a digital presentation can shave off days of prep time.

Space-Saving Comparison

Let’s face it—space is everything when selling a home. Physical setup for property presentation often means moving items around or finding places to store clutter. And in small homes, that can be a problem. Overcrowded rooms shrink the space visually and physically.

A virtual presentation doesn’t need you to move a single thing. In fact, designers can work around clutter or edit it out digitally. The result is a clean, open space that buyers can imagine themselves in, without heading into a warehouse.

It also leaves your real-life space untouched. So, whether you're living in the home or prepping it from afar, your routine stays just the way it is.

So, Which Option Works Best for You?

Each method has its place. Physical setup for property presentation still works well for large homes, model units, or open houses where walk-in appeal is key. It also suits sellers with time, budget, and space to spare.

Virtual staging fits modern needs. It's fast, tidy, flexible, and affordable. It's also ideal for vacant homes, remote sellers, or anyone looking to list quickly without added stress.

Some sellers even mix both—physically key rooms and using a digital option for the rest. This way, they balance cost, time, and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Both options help your home look its best. But if you’re short on time or space—or just want to sell smarter—virtual staging makes a strong case. The tools are better, the visuals are sharper, and the turnaround is faster than ever. With one simple step, you can transform your listing photos and catch more eyes online.

So, before moving heavy furniture or clearing out closets, ask yourself this—could a digital touch save you days of work and still seal the deal?