Case Study – Pre-Retirees

Early 50s, High-earning years

Life’s been full—and fast. Now you’re thinking more seriously about what comes next. Whether you’re trying to make the most of your peak earning years or simply want peace of mind about retirement and college costs, we’re here to guide the way forward.

MARCUS & LAUREN

50s | Two Teenagers | Mid-Level Executive | $275K Income

The Situation

Marcus, a project director, and his wife Lauren, a part-time nurse, were raising two teens nearing college.

Despite a strong income, Marcus felt pulled in all directions:

  • Are we behind on retirement savings?
  • How should we handle upcoming college costs?
  • Should we pay off our mortgage faster?
  • Are we investing wisely or just guessing?
  • What if something happens to me—would my family be protected?

 

He didn’t want sales pitches—just a trusted partner to build a real plan for today and the future.

What We Did

  1. Cash Flow Reset:
    Redirected $1,500/month toward retirement, college, and emergency savings—without feeling restricted.

  2. Retirement Check:
    Modeled scenarios showing retirement at 62 was still possible; increased 401(k) contributions and added a backdoor Roth IRA.

  3. College Planning:
    Balanced retirement priorities with realistic college budgets and financial aid strategies.

  4. Investments Simplified:
    Consolidated accounts, cut fees, aligned to a tax-efficient, growth-focused strategy; boosted Lauren’s 403(b) with match and auto-increase.

  5. Risk Protection:
    Added term life coverage, reviewed disability insurance, and strengthened liability protection.

  6. Estate Update:
    Refreshed wills, POAs, healthcare proxies, and set up a trust for their kids.

Where They Are Now

Two years later, Marcus and Lauren feel grounded and forward-looking. Their retirement savings rate is on track, their kids have clarity around college expectations, and their investment portfolio is working smarter, not harder. They took a family trip to Italy (a lifelong dream) knowing they could afford it without sabotaging their future plans.

Instead of feeling pulled in all directions, Marcus now says he feels like he’s “driving the bus” financially—with a clear map and the confidence to make strategic choices aligned with his family’s values and motivations.

We continue to meet to adjust their plan as life—and opportunities—evolve.

Our Support

  • Retirement Gap: See where you stand and what it takes to retire on your terms.

  • Max Contributions: Use catch-up and high-impact savings strategies in peak earning years.

  • Education Funding: Finish college planning with smart, tax-efficient withdrawals.

  • Debt Strategy: Eliminate remaining debt without losing financial momentum.

  • Insurance & Care: Recheck coverage and plan ahead for future healthcare costs.

  • Estate Planning: Update documents for today’s reality and family clarity.

  • Lifestyle Planning: Map out where you’ll live, spend, and enjoy retirement.

Disclaimer

The case study presented is for illustrative and educational purposes only. It is not based on any one individual’s personal situation, but is a composite designed to reflect the types of strategies and planning approaches we use with clients in similar circumstances. This example does not guarantee future results and should not be interpreted as a promise of specific outcomes. Every client’s situation is unique, and all financial decisions should be made based on a thorough review of your individual goals, needs, and circumstances.