Almost everyone waits too long to plan. They think estate planning is something to handle “later.”
But later often comes with higher taxes, bigger problems, and fewer options.
Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart, didn’t wait. Before Walmart became the giant it is today, he gave his children shares of the company. Those shares weren’t worth much at the time – but as Walmart grew, so did their value.
By gifting early, he avoided massive estate taxes and secured his family’s future.
He wasn’t alone.
Warren Buffett bought farmland as a teenager, long before anyone thought he’d be the world’s most famous investor.
That single move taught him the power of ownership early – and much of his fortune is built on repeating that simple principle over time.
Why Early Moves Work
- Lower taxes: Transfer assets before they skyrocket.
- Bigger legacy: Lock in lower values today, so more growth stays in your family’s hands.
- Stronger heirs: When your kids or grandkids own a piece early, they feel invested in the journey.
The Legacy Wealth HQ Philosophy in Action
At Legacy Wealth HQ, we believe wealth isn’t just money in the bank. It’s financial freedom, tangible assets, health and purpose. Early moves matter in every pillar:
- Financial Wealth: Start a trust while values are modest – just like Walton.
- Alternative Investments: Allocate to private deals or opportunities before they become mainstream.
- Legacy Assets: Buy gold, silver, or real estate now – before inflation erodes your buying power.
- Health & Well-Being: Invest in your body early. Being strong and healthy creates more time to enjoy your wealth.
- Purpose-Driven Wealth: Involve your family now in charitable giving or values-based planning so they see wealth as more than dollars.
The truth is simple: the earlier you act, the more powerful your legacy becomes.
I’ve even seen this play out firsthand. A local business in my hometown had a fleet of delivery trucks.
When their children were born, they created a new company in the kids’ names and transferred the trucks into it. The original business rented the trucks back from the children’s new company.
That one creative move built a sustainable business for the next generation.
You may not have delivery trucks or a national retail chain but there is always something you can do.
With the right professional guidance, you can find creative strategies to start building your legacy today – while your assets still have room to grow.
But the point is that you need to start now. Don’t delay any longer.
To Your Legacy,
Chris Witmer