Continuing a family legacy of helping others through sound financial planning was a natural progression for Travis Wells, a professional financial advisor with Money Concepts in Fayetteville.
With deep roots in Fayette County, Travis follows a trail blazed by his mother, Linda Wells. Linda, who served for 12 years as the second woman ever elected to the Fayette County Commission, discovered through her work with a domestic violence advocacy group that many people did not have access to financial advice since most financial advisors cater only to the wealthy. She wanted to be sure that everyone had access to excellent financial advice and planning, so she started her own business. “I’m a problem solver and I don’t like being bored. I found that the women I had worked with needed a financial toolbox, but they didn’t have financial savvy. I knew I could help them.”
Travis joined his mom as a financial advisor about eight years ago. “The timing was 100 percent correct,” he said. “A lot of the jobs I’d had prior to that—working in law enforcement and managing a trucking company—were service-related. This was the next, logical progression.” When Linda retired, Travis took the helm, and his son, Carson, will join him as an advisor soon.
The family business is about much more than advice on where to invest money. “We provide retirement planning, counseling, and wealth management from the standpoint of knowing people and knowing their families,” Travis said. “Our business is generational, and we have generations of clients too—three generations with some families.”
A willingness to get to know people is the primary difference that sets them apart from larger firms. “A lot of people in our business provide answers only to the questions that are asked,” Travis said. “Often, people don’t know what to ask. When we talk to people, we want to know what their plans are, what sort of things are going on in their lives, and how income is affecting their households. We do not only talk about their money. We also talk about who handles things in case they pass away, and whether they’ve discussed their plans with their kids. We really try and involve the entire family.”
Having been part of the Fayette County community for more than 40 years allows Travis to relate to his clients in a personal way. “You can get financial advice from someone across the world, but it’s different for someone who can say, I grew up here and understand how financial advising really works,” he said.
Carson Wells plans to follow in his dad’s footsteps claiming that his grandmother, mom, and dad have taught him not only how to manage a business, but how to manage life. “I’ve always had a knack for helping people and I’ve always wanted to own my own business, so this just makes sense.” When Carson was asked what he valued, he replied, “Elevating the customer experience and time management. Being on time is key! I believe that shows respect for others.”
When asked what is the biggest mistake people make with investing their wealth, Travis said, “Not starting early enough. Everybody thinks they have more time, but life happens, and it keeps people busy. Before you know it, you’re 35 or 40 years old. “You can start anytime, but it’s important to just start. Even a couple of years can make a huge difference in how much you have at retirement.”
In an era overtaken by global markets and online giants, the value of locally-owned businesses has never been greater. The Wells family has played a crucial role in shaping the character and vitality of our community, and they are ready to help you build a more secure future.
All Securities through Money Concepts Capital Corp. Member FINRA/SIPC. Independent contractor of Money Concepts International.
