May I make the necessary arrangements in advance?
Yes, usually arrangements may be made in advance. When you plan ahead, you will be able to consider the many options available. You will have the opportunity to make an informed decision about your funeral and cemetery arrangements and the form of memorial you prefer. You will be able to make choices that are meaningful to both you and your family, and you will gain peace of mind knowing your family and friends will be relieved of the emotional and financial burden often associated with making arrangements when a death occurs. By prearranging your funeral and cemetery services, you benefit by purchasing at today’s prices, free from inflationary pressures in the future. Be sure to check whether the contract of your local provider guarantees prices. Your local cemetery and funeral provider can help you preplan.
What happens if I buy cemetery property here in advance and later move to another area?
Some cemeteries have credit exchange programs which allow for a dollar-for-dollar transfer of services and merchandise between participating cemeteries. When prearranging, be sure to ask your local cemetery about exchange policies, surrender or sell back policies, right holder transfers and privileges offered.
When I buy a grave do I receive a deed just like when I purchase other types of real estate?
No. When you purchase a grave you are in fact purchasing the right to designate who may be interred in the space, rather than purchasing the grave itself. The land and control over that land remains the property and responsibility of the cemetery. You also acquire a right to place a memorial, subject to the rules and regulations for memorials established for the lot, where permitted.
Can I resell my grave?
This will depend on the rules and regulations of the cemetery. While some cemeteries will repurchase graves others will not repurchase graves and may have restrictions on resale to a third party.
