Understanding Today’s Financial Environment
Welcome, I’m Michele McCarty-Woods, a Financial Advisor serving Des Moines, Iowa and the surrounding communities. I understand that individuals face unique challenges as they prepare for retirement. Let me help take the mystery out of preparing for today and tomorrow. Whether your goal is saving for retirement, college savings, or estate strategies, my personalized service focuses on your needs, wants, and financial goals and objectives.
With over 32 years of experience in the Financial and Insurance Industry, I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise. My company, Retirement Resources USA, Inc., is on Lake Panorama in Panora. My home, on the north end of the Wakonda Golf Course, is also available for meetings by appointment only. Simply call my office for details.
Outside of the office I am committed to my husband and four children and I love riding horses. I can help you address your needs of today and for many years to come and look forward to working with you through all stages of your life. It does not cost anything to meet with me, so please call.
Helpful Content
Spotting Credit Trouble
The wise use of credit is a critical skill. These 10 questions will help you assess your skill level.
Monthly Memberships
A look as how autopay subscriptions can be a drain on your finances, especially when forgotten.
Getting a Head Start on College Savings
A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.
Social Security: Five Facts You Need to Know
Here are five facts about Social Security that are important to keep in mind.
To Catch a Thief
Having your identity stolen may result in financial loss plus the cost of trying to restore your good name.
Choose Your Own Retirement Adventure
Retirement is one of the greatest adventures you’ll have. Which retirement adventure will you choose?
A Bucket Plan to Go with Your Bucket List
Longer, healthier living can put greater stress on retirement assets; the bucket approach may be one answer.
Do Our Biases Affect Our Financial Choices?
Even the most seasoned investors have biases affecting their financial choices.
Estate Strategies of the Rich and Famous
The examples of famous celebrities underline the need for a clear estate strategy.
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Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare the long-term financial outcomes of renting versus buying a home.
Simple 401k
See how increasing your 401(k) contributions today could affect your balance at retirement.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.
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Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
18 Years Worth of Days
The average retirement lasts for 18 years. What will you do with your days?
How to Retire Early
Retiring early sounds like a dream come true, but it’s important to take a look at the cold, hard facts.
What You Need to Know About Social Security
Every so often, you'll hear about Social Security benefits running out. But is there truth to the fears, or is it all hype?
Saving for College 101
Here's a crash course on saving for college.
Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?