How To Choose The Right Cemetery Property For Your Loved Ones

​Choosing a final resting place for a loved one is a deeply personal decision that can be influenced by cultural, familial, religious, and personal preferences. Selecting the right cemetery property involves more than just finding a location; it entails understanding the different options, knowing the associated costs, and respecting the wishes of those who will be memorialized. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the factors to consider when selecting a cemetery property, ensuring that you make an informed and respectful choice.

Understand the Types of Cemetery Properties

1. Traditional Burial Plots: These are the most common type of cemetery plots, typically allowing for either a casket or a cremation urn. Plots can be single, double (allowing for two members of a family to be buried in one plot), or family plots that accommodate multiple family members.
   
   
2. Cremation Options: For those who prefer cremation, many cemeteries offer columbarium
   niches (a small space in a wall or structure for an urn) or designated areas for scattering ashes.
   
   
3. Mausoleums: A mausoleum is a building that provides above-ground entombment for bodies in crypts. This option can be more costly but is favored by some for its enduring structure and the fact that it is above ground.
   
   
4. Green Burials: Increasingly popular, green burials ensure the burial site is as natural as possible, avoiding embalming chemicals and non-biodegradable materials. These can take place in a traditional cemetery or a natural preserve.

Consider the Location
The location of the cemetery is crucial as it affects how easily family members can visit. Consider the following:

• Proximity to Family: Choosing a cemetery close to where family members live can make visits easier.
  
  
• Surrounding Environment: Some prefer quiet, serene settings away from the hustle and bustle of city life, while others may choose a location with a particular view or natural beauty.
  
  
• Historical or Cultural Significance: Some families choose cemeteries based on historical or cultural significance, which can add a layer of meaning to the memorial.

Know the Costs Involved
Cemetery costs can vary widely depending on the location, type of plot, and additional services, such as maintenance and grave opening/closing services. Be sure to understand all the costs involved:

• Purchase Price: The cost of the plot itself.
  
  
• Endowment Care Fee: Also known as a perpetual care fee, this is for ongoing maintenance of the cemetery.
  
  
• Opening and Closing Fees: The cost for the cemetery to dig and then close the grave.
  
  
• Headstone or Marker Fees: Costs associated with purchasing and placing a headstone or marker.
  
  
• Miscellaneous Fees: These can include fees for paperwork, records keeping, or other administrative tasks.

Visit the Site
Before making a decision, visit the site to see it firsthand. During the visit, consider:

• General Maintenance: Is the cemetery well-maintained? Are the grounds clean and well cared for?
  
  
• Staff: Are the cemetery staff helpful and understanding? Their cooperation can be crucial during difficult times.
  
  
• Regulations: Ask about regulations regarding headstones, decorations, and other items to ensure they align with your wishes.

Check for Legal and Policy Matters
Ensure that the cemetery is licensed and abides by state regulations. Check if there are any restrictions or policies that could affect your decision, such as restrictions on certain types of monuments or limitations on visitation hours.

Making the Decision
When you have considered all these factors, discuss the options with other family members to ensure that the decision respects the wishes of those who will be memorialized and those who will visit. Choosing a cemetery property is a significant decision that can affect generations, and it is essential to approach it with sensitivity and thoroughness.

Selecting the right cemetery property for your loved ones involves careful consideration of their wishes, your family's needs, and the practical aspects of the cemetery itself. By taking the time to understand these factors, you can choose a resting place that honors the memory of your loved ones in a respectful and meaningful way.

At Falcon Head Insurance Services, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (916) 838-0393. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.