It’s not often that most people have to purchase a cemetery plot, but when the time comes, it’s important to know what to do. Unsure what a cemetery plot is? Checkout our post here.
There are many things to think about when making this kind of purchase, and it’s best to be prepared before you make any decisions.
How to find a cemetery plot to buy
The first step is to find a cemetery plot that you like. This can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. You may want to ask friends or family members for recommendations. Once you’ve found a few potential cemeteries, you can start visiting them to get a feel for the place.
If you’re interested in buying a cemetery plot, the next step is to contact the council or church that owns the plot directly. You can usually find this information on the website of the cemetery itself. Once you’ve made contact, they’ll be able to tell you more about the plot and how much it costs.
How to choose a cemetery?
There are many different types of cemeteries, and the costs can vary widely. Public cemeteries are usually less expensive than private ones. The size of the plot and the location will also affect the price. You may be able to get a discount if you buy several plots at once.
Here are some questions that need to be answered to determine if a cemetery is right for you or your family member:
- Burial options are available.
- Where is it? Is it close to family, friends, and the funeral home?
- What type of memorialization may be done?
- Are there any Military perks? Find out more about burial in a military cemetery here.
- Religiously affiliated beliefs/restrictions
- What other facilities are there?
- What are the visitation hours?
- Who owns the cemetery? And for how long?
When you’re looking for a cemetery so you can purchase a plot, it’s important to compare prices but don’t just go with the cheapest one – because the low cost doesn’t always mean the best option for you or a loved one.
How to choose a cemetery plot
There are a few things to consider when purchasing a cemetery plot.
First, you’ll need to decide whether you want a traditional burial or cremation.
If you choose cremation, you will not need a plot and can instead scatter the ashes in a location that is special to you. Read more in our scattering article.
If you choose a traditional burial, you will need to purchase a cemetery plot. Plots are usually sold in pairs, so you will need to buy two if you want to be buried next to your spouse or partner. Prices for plots vary depending on the location and size of the cemetery but can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Once you have decided on the type of burial and purchased a plot, you will need to arrange for a headstone or marker. Headstones can be simple or elaborate and are usually made of granite or marble. Prices for headstones start at around $500 and can go up into the thousands depending on the size and design.
You will also need to arrange for a funeral home to handle the burial arrangements.
Funeral homes can help with everything from choosing a casket to filing the necessary paperwork. They will also usually be responsible for transporting the body to the cemetery and conducting any funeral or memorial services.
Finally, you will need to purchase a burial insurance policy to cover the costs of the funeral and burial. This is especially important if you are not planning on using a funeral home, as they can be very expensive. You can find more information in this post.
After you’ve found the right plot for you
Purchasing a cemetery plot and all of the associated costs can be a lot to manage, but following these steps will help make the process a little easier.
Once you’ve found a cemetery you like and spoken to the staff about your options, you’ll need to fill out some paperwork. This will include your personal information as well as the details of the burial. You’ll also need to make payment arrangements at this time.
Most cemeteries require that graves be dug a certain number of days before the burial. This allows the ground to settle and makes it easier for the funeral home to prepare the site. You’ll need to coordinate with the cemetery and funeral home to make sure everything is ready in time.
On the day of the burial, you’ll need to arrive at the cemetery with the casket or urn. The funeral home will take care of transporting the body to the grave site. Once there, you’ll say your final goodbye and the burial will take place.
Buying a cemetery plot is a big decision. But by doing your research and planning ahead, you can make sure it’s the right choice for you and your family.
What to know when buying a cemetery plot
When you purchase a cemetery plot, you are making a long-term investment. This is why it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable cemetery.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a cemetery plot:
- The price of the plot will vary depending on the location of the cemetery. Plots in rural areas will be less expensive than those in major cities.
- The size of the plot is also a factor. Standard plots are usually 10 by 20 feet, but you may be able to find smaller or larger plots depending on the cemetery.
- Most cemeteries require that plots be purchased in pairs, so you’ll need to buy two if you want to be buried next to your spouse or partner.
- Cemetery plots are usually sold by the cemetery itself, but you may also be able to find them through a funeral home or online.
- Once you’ve found a plot you’re interested in, be sure to ask about any additional fees that may apply. These can include fees for the headstone, grave marker, or funeral arrangements.
- By doing your research and planning ahead, you can make sure you are getting the best possible deal on a cemetery plot.
How the lease on a burial plot works
When you purchase a cemetery plot, you are usually given a deed or contract that indicates you own the rights to that plot. In some cases, however, the cemetery may lease the plot to you for a certain period of time. We cover cemetery deeds in this post.
This is known as a leasehold burial plot. The terms of the lease will vary depending on the cemetery, but they usually last for 20 to 30 years.
At the end of the lease, you will need to renew it if you want to continue using the plot. You may also be required to pay an annual fee to keep the plot in good condition.
Leasehold burial plots are a good option if you’re not sure whether you want to be buried in a particular cemetery. They can also be a cheaper option than purchasing a plot outright.
Before you decide on a leasehold plot, be sure to ask about the terms of the lease and whether there are any restrictions on what you can do with the plot.
For example, some leases may not allow you to erect a headstone or marker until the end of the lease.
By understanding the terms of the lease, you can make sure you are getting the best possible deal on your burial plot.
Find more information in our Grave Ownership Rights post.
What happens when a burial plot lease runs out?
There are a few things that can happen when the lease of a burial plot expires.
The first option is that the family of the person buried in the plot can renew the lease with the cemetery.
This is usually done by paying a small fee to the cemetery. The second option is that the family can choose to have the body exhumed and moved to a new location.
This option is often more expensive and can be emotionally difficult for the family.
The last option is to do nothing and allow the body to remain in the plot even after the lease has expired.
However, in no case will a corpse be exhumed to give space for a new burial; instead, graves may be dug deeper to make room for more bodies at the top the plot.
The regulations regarding burial grounds vary by state. As the population rises, some regions are considering resuming grave plots to make burial more sustainable and curb rising prices.
If you’re curious about what would happen to a certain plot of land, contact the burial location and request information on their future plans.
Buying a cemetery plot is a big decision. There are many factors to consider, including the cost, location, and size of the plot. You’ll also need to decide whether you want to purchase a plot outright or lease it from the cemetery.
By doing your research and planning ahead, you can make sure you are getting the best possible deal on a cemetery plot as well as picking the perfect place for you or a loved one.
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