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
Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do
Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.
Retirement Income and the Traditional Portfolio
Experiencing negative returns early in retirement can potentially undermine the sustainability of your assets.
Gap Insurance for Leased Cars
If you’re thinking of leasing a new car, then you shouldn’t forget about gap insurance.
The Sequence of Returns
A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.
A Checklist for When a Spouse or Parent Passes
An overview of some fundamental steps when a loved one passes.
Keeping Good Records is Good Business
Maintaining good records for your business not only helps to meet your tax and legal obligations, but it can save you money.
Choices for Your 401(k) at a Former Employer
Individuals have four basic choices with the 401(k) account they accrued at a previous employer.
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Historical Inflation
See how the purchasing power of a dollar has changed over time due to inflation.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
Annuity Comparison
Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
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An Arm and a Leg
A visit to the hospital can be painful, for both your body and your wallet. Don't let it be more painful than it has to be.
Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?
There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college.
Investments
You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.
Estate Management 101
A will may be only one of the documents you need—and one factor to consider—when it comes to managing your estate.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
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.