Finding Financial Peace of Mind

Member

Michael and Leah

Occupation

Executive

Location

Illinois

Membership Level

Platinum Member

"Before Range, we had a financial advisor who provided basic guidance, but we eventually reached the limits of what they could offer. After joining Range, I gained a comprehensive understanding of our financial situation and a clear path forward. The difference has been remarkable."


The Challenge: Managing Finances Without Direction

Before finding Range, we were at a crossroads with our financial management. We initially used a “free” basic tracking tool and budget app, but when that was discontinued, we moved to a fee-only financial planner who helped us form some long-term strategies. He knew our employer benefits well and advised us for several years at a reasonable price—$500 a year. It was nice having someone to give us direction and be available for financial questions.  

The Search: Looking for a Comprehensive Solution

Eventually, we ran up against the limits of what he could provide. We needed more of an all encompassing provider—someone who could help with estate planning, tax planning, and defensive assets such as insurance. We also wanted assistance with managed brokerage accounts for investing outside of tax-advantaged vehicles. That's when we started looking seriously at comprehensive financial solutions.

Initially, we were hesitant about the online approach. We wanted someone we could call directly, someone who would get back to us right away. We thought knowing where they worked if we needed to walk into their office was a must. Because of that concern, we chose a local financial advisor first. But we quickly became unhappy with that decision.

The Disappointment: When Traditional Advice Falls Short

The issues became apparent during onboarding. There was a significant age difference that showed in their views on investing. When asked about alternative investments such as cryptocurrencies, it was a non-starter—they wouldn't even entertain those conversations. They pushed us heavily toward whole life insurance plans, which wasn't what we wanted.

To complicate matters, they were also an insurance broker, presenting a clear conflict of interest in their recommendations. 

Most frustrating was how they spoke to us like a parent would speak to a child rather than as an equal or advisor. 

The Discovery: Finding Range's Comprehensive Approach

After paying nearly $2,000 for services that didn't meet our needs, we decided we wanted a different experience. That's when we came back to Range and reached out about another look.

From that point on, Range provided everything we needed. They offered a future-facing investment strategy that included space for alternative investments, a team of advisors with different specialties, and a great online platform where we could see our entire financial picture in one place.

The Range suite provided us with self-help tools such as the cash planning tool and budgeting software as well as other calculators that we used to help make financial decisions. 

The Benefits: What Makes Range Different

What I appreciate most about Range is having that third voice in our financial discussions. When my wife and I are talking about what we want to do financially, one of us usually says, "We should probably include Range in this discussion to make sure we aren’t missing anything." Having a third party with an unbiased opinion provides a valuable perspective.  The Range team is available to message any time of the day and usually responds within 24 hours, offering video calls at any time for more in-depth discussions.  

I particularly value Range's approach to communication. Their responses never make us feel judged, even if we ask what might seem like an uneducated question. It's always educational in tone, presenting things to consider rather than dictating what to do.

The Technology: Seamless Financial Management

The technology has been impressive too. When we recently moved our last IRA through Range, it was amazingly quick. Within three or four days, all the funds had transferred and were properly reinvested. Their tax organization tools have also been exceptionally user-friendly, making it easy to upload and track the twenty to thirty forms we need to manage.

The Result: Confidence in Our Financial Future

The most significant improvement since joining Range isn't just in our financial position—it's in our mindset. We now approach financial decisions with confidence rather than uncertainty. What started as a search for consolidated services has evolved into a partnership that provides genuine peace of mind about our financial future.

This confidence comes from knowing we have experts watching our backs, identifying opportunities we might miss, and helping us avoid costly mistakes. With Range, we know our financial plan isn't just about today—it's built to adapt and grow with us for decades to come.