Purchasing a cemetery plot is a significant decision involving location, plot type, cost, and long-term maintenance considerations. When you buy a cemetery plot, you are purchasing burial rights (an easement) — not the land itself.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Guide
- Determine the type of plot needed — Options include single plots (one casket or multiple cremated remains), companion/double plots (two burials side by side or stacked), family/estate plots (multip...
- Choose a cemetery type — Public/municipal cemeteries (usually least expensive), private cemeteries (may have religious or membership requirements), religious cemeteries (affiliated with specific fa...
- Research locations — Consider proximity to family for visitation, the cemetery's financial stability and maintenance record, religious or cultural compatibility, and surrounding environment and aes...
- Visit cemeteries in person — Walk the grounds, meet the cemetery manager, observe the level of maintenance, check the condition of older sections, and note accessibility for elderly visitors.
- Understand all costs — The plot itself is just one expense. Additional costs include the opening/closing fee ($1,000-$3,000 for digging and filling the grave), a vault or liner ($1,000-$10,000, req...
- Review cemetery rules and regulations — Every cemetery has rules governing headstone size and materials, decorations allowed, visiting hours, and maintenance responsibilities. Get these in writing ...
- Check the deed and contract carefully — Verify what rights you are purchasing, whether the plot is transferable or resalable, refund policies, and what happens if the cemetery goes out of business.
- Consider future needs — Buy enough plots for your anticipated needs (spouse, family members). Purchasing adjacent plots now is easier and cheaper than finding them later.
- Ask about payment plans — Many cemeteries offer installment plans. Understand interest rates, what happens if you miss payments, and whether the plot is reserved during the payment period.
- Keep documentation safe — Store the deed, contract, receipt, and cemetery rules with your estate planning documents. Inform your executor and family of the purchase and location.
Common Mistakes
- Buying under emotional pressure
- Not visiting the cemetery
- Ignoring additional costs
- Overlooking perpetual care
- Not checking transferability
Pro Tips
- Compare at least 3 cemeteries
- Check for veteran eligibility
- Consider cemetery financial stability
- Buy plots in advance during off-peak times
- Understand green burial options