Can I Buy a Burial Plot in Advance?
Navigate the process of buying a burial plot in advance. Understand your options, financial considerations, and the steps to make an informed decision.
Purchasing a burial plot in advance is a common part of comprehensive end-of-life planning. This proactive step offers peace of mind and can relieve future burdens on loved ones. Understanding the various types of plots available, the financial aspects involved, and the procedural steps for acquisition can help navigate this important process.
Exploring Burial Plot Options
A wide array of burial plot options exists, catering to diverse preferences and needs. Traditional ground burial plots are common, available as single spaces for one individual, side-by-side plots for couples, or larger family plots. Some ground plots may also offer double-depth options, allowing two interments in a single space.
For those considering above-ground interment, mausoleums provide crypts for caskets within a permanent structure. Cremation offers distinct options, including smaller urn gardens, niches within columbariums, or designated scattering gardens. Cemeteries also vary in their characteristics, with some offering natural or “green” burial sections that use biodegradable materials and avoid embalming. Location within a cemetery can also influence choice, with preferences for aesthetic beauty, proximity to special features, or ease of access.
Financial Considerations for Advance Purchase
Purchasing a burial plot in advance involves several financial components. The plot’s purchase price can range widely, from approximately $500 for a basic plot in a small, rural public cemetery to over $10,000 in urban or prestigious private cemeteries. Beyond the initial plot cost, an endowment care or perpetual care fee is typically assessed, contributing to the long-term maintenance of the cemetery grounds. This fee is often a percentage, such as 5% to 15% of the plot’s price, or a flat fee, and is mandated in many areas to ensure ongoing upkeep.
Additional costs, though often paid at the time of need, should be considered for future budgeting. These include opening and closing fees, which cover the labor for preparing and closing the gravesite and typically range from $300 to $2,300. Markers, monuments, or headstones also represent a separate expense, with costs varying significantly from a few hundred dollars for a flat marker to over $20,000 for elaborate upright monuments. Pre-purchasing a plot offers the financial benefit of locking in current prices, safeguarding against future inflation. Many cemeteries offer installment plans for advance purchases, allowing for structured payments over time.
Preparing for Your Purchase
Before engaging with a cemetery, clarifying personal preferences and needs is an important preparatory step. This involves discussing desires with family members, determining whether a single plot, side-by-side plots, or a larger family estate aligns with future plans. Considering the desired geographic area, proximity to family, and the overall ambiance of a cemetery, such as its landscaping and maintenance standards, can help narrow down options.
Religious or cultural considerations may also influence the selection of a cemetery or plot type. Some cemeteries are affiliated with specific religious denominations, while others are public or dedicated to veterans. Understanding a budget range and any specific requirements, such as the type of memorialization allowed, will streamline the decision-making process. Having these details clear before contacting providers ensures a more focused and efficient search.
Completing the Burial Plot Purchase
Once personal preferences are clear and preliminary research is complete, the next step involves contacting cemeteries or memorial parks of interest. It is advisable to schedule visits to prospective locations to assess the grounds and discuss available plots. During these discussions, inquire about all associated services and their costs to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitment.
A thorough review of the purchase contract is essential before finalizing any agreement. This document outlines critical terms and conditions, including the “exclusive right to burial” that is typically acquired, rather than outright land ownership. The contract should detail any ongoing fees, rules regarding memorialization, and policies concerning transferability of the plot rights. Upon agreement, payment can be made as a lump sum or through an agreed-upon installment plan. Finally, ensure receipt of official documentation, such as a deed or certificate of interment rights, and secure these records in a safe place, informing family members of their location for future reference.