How To Buy A Cemetery Plot?

End Of Life Planning And Getting Started With Buying A Cemetery Plot

While it can be uncomfortable to consider the possibility of your demise, it is essential to plan some aspects of your end-of-life requirements in advance. One such important decision involves purchasing a cemetery plot. If you’re unsure how to buy a cemetery plot for your funeral, you’re not alone. However, the good news is that the process is fairly simple. You can buy a cemetery plot in your local cemetery or a plot on the church property if you are an eligible member. 

To purchase a burial plot that is available for sale, you need to be aware of the key steps to take and the right questions to ask. The guide given below can help you make an informed decision regarding this crucial aspect of funeral planning.

A Step By Step Guide On How To Buy A Cemetery Plot

Before you get started, it may seem like a daunting task to select and purchase a burial spot for yourself and/or your loved ones. However, by taking it one step at a time, you’ll find that the process is much easier. Here is a broad overview of what you need to do to buy a cemetery plot today. 

Step 1: Contact the cemeteries you’re interested in

Whether you are buying a burial plot for yourself or for a loved one who may be alive or may have passed on, the first step is to contact the cemeteries you are interested in. Although you can gather a lot of relevant information over email or a phone call, it is best to set up an appointment and visit the places in person. This way, you can talk to the cemetery manager in person and make a more informed decision about how to buy a cemetery plot.

Step 2: Check which plots are available

To buy a cemetery plot, you need to first know which plots are up for sale. You may prefer a particular cemetery over others, but chances are, they may not have any spots left to sell. Or, if you are looking to buy multiple plots for your family, they may not have the required number of plots on offer. Getting to know these details can help you choose a cemetery that you like and that has plots available for purchase. 

Step 3: Ask for the prices (and compare them)

While you’re at the cemetery, ask them for a price list of their burial plots. The cost is one of the most important factors to consider when you are buying a plot for yourself or a loved one. Remember to ask for the prices of all the services and the cemetery offers, so you are not caught unawares later. You can then compare the quotes by different cemeteries and choose a plot that you like, and that also fits in your budget. 

Step 4: Get to know the rules and stipulations, if any

Cemeteries may have their own rules regarding various aspects of a burial or cremation. For instance, there may be stipulations about the kind of grave decorations allowed. They may also have contracts with other companies about purchasing a grave marker and other such necessities. Get to know these details before you buy a cemetery plot, so you are more aware of how much flexibility you and your family members have. 

Step 5: Enquire about the conditions for in-ground burials 

Apart from the external aspects, the cemetery you choose may also have some conditions regarding in-ground burials. For instance, they may require that a grave liner or a burial vault be installed. Some cemeteries may also be particular about having burial vaults as opposed to grave liners for more stability. In that case, you will have to factor this into your budget. 

Step 6: Take a tour of the cemetery before you decide 

After you have all the necessary details on paper, ask for a tour of the place to get a better idea of the vibe and the overall environment. Sometimes, a simple exercise like this can help you make a choice that you feel at peace with, because it gives you a real-time view of the place where you or a loved one will be laid to rest in. 

Purchasing A Cemetery Plot Is Not Just A Necessity, But Also A Gift

It may not seem that way initially, but a burial plot or a cemetery plot is not just a necessary part of funeral planning. It is also indirectly a gift to your loved ones. That’s because it saves them the trouble of finding last-minute plots up for sale and paying exorbitant prices in case of your unexpected demise. It gives them the gift of peace of mind and the privilege to mourn their loss without any additional responsibilities to handle during an already tough time.