Buying a Burial Plot

By: Matthew Funeral Home
Monday, January 23, 2023

Buying a burial plot is an important part of planning for your final wishes. There are a number of factors to consider when deciding to purchase a plot, or plots, in a cemetery. This article will explore these factors, and will discuss what may fit your needs. 

Plot Location

The location of the plot is often an important aspect of one’s choice. Most people choose a cemetery that is close to where they live, because of convenience. However, you may want to also consider where your relatives live. After all, they are going to visit the plot more than you will. In the event that you move, you can usually sell the plot back to the cemetery.

Plot Types

The type of plot that you are looking for will determine the price and availability. Ultimately, it is important to understand what kind of plot you want to purchase. There are four types of plots that a cemetery will usually have available. These are single, companion, family, and plots for cremated remains. 

Single Plots

Single plots are meant for the burial of a single individual. They usually include space for a burial marker or memorial stone. 

Companion Plots

Companion plots are spots for 2 individuals, usually a married couple. Companion plots are either side-by-side or double-depth. A companion plot will either have space for 2 memorial stones, or one stone for both people. 

Family Plots

Family plots are areas of the cemetery dedicated to one family. This can be a variety of sizes, depending on the needs of your family and what the cemetery has to offer. Family plots will either have one memorial stone for the whole family or individual markers. 

Plots for Cremated Remains

Even if you choose cremation, you can still have your remains buried. Cremated remains can be buried in a cemetery plot. Because cremains take up less space, some cemeteries allow multiple urns to be buried in one plot.

Monuments and Markers

Cemeteries may have restrictions on the shapes, sizes, and/or colors of monuments allowed within. This can affect the whole cemetery or just certain sectors. For some people, this can be a contributing factor in choosing a burial plot. Be sure to inquire about these restrictions before purchasing a plot.

The View

This may seem like a strange part of choosing a plot, but many individuals like to know what their final resting place is overlooking. This can affect the cost of the plot greatly, so it is an important thing to consider. Plots closer to garden areas within the cemetery, or looking over the surrounding area may cost more. 

Cost of a Plot

Cost is often a key factor in determining what plot you purchase. All of the above factors will affect the cost; but ultimately, it is important to consider your budget in making a final decision. However, when you pre-plan your funeral, you can often pay for funerary costs in small increments. This can make it easier to get everything that you want out of your final resting place. 

For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

Do Funeral Plans Go In Your Will?

It is a common misconception that you should put your funeral wishes in your Will. In most cases, the Will is read after the funeral/burial proceedings are complete. If you want your funeral wishes...

Anticipatory Grief and Terminal Loved Ones

When a loved one is sick with a terminal illness, you may experience grief in expectation of their passing. Anticipatory grief refers to feelings of grief and loss when a loved one is expected to ...

Preplanning and Reducing Family Conflict

    Let’s face it. Some family members just don’t get along. Many families have siblings who just can’t agree, or those who simply argue for the sake of it. In times of stress, famil...

Food & Death in the Family

Food is a form of love for many people. From grandma scooping you an extra helping, to parents making sure you have breakfast in the morning. Cooking is often a way to share cultures, support each ...

Burial at Sea: A Guide

Burial at sea is an often-overlooked concept for many New Yorkers, but it is an interesting and unique way to be laid to rest. The New York City area and beyond have many marinas with plenty of cha...

Spring Cleaning After the Death of a Loved One

After a loved one passes, it can be difficult to organize their possessions and decide which to hold on to, what to give to others, and what to get rid of. Spring, a time of renewal, is also when m...

Supporting a Grieving Teen

After the death of a loved one, it can be a challenge for families to support their children through such a change. Dealing with grief and death can be especially overwhelming for teens. This artic...

Where to Scatter Ashes of a Loved One

After a loved one is cremated, some families prefer to scatter the ashes, rather than keep them in an urn. Scattering the ashes of your loved one can provide closure for you and your family. Many f...

Metal or Wood Caskets

\There are many choices to make when planning a loved one’s funeral. The type of casket your loved one is laid to rest in is just one of those many choices. This article will explore some of the ma...

Cremation with Traditional Funeral Services

Families that choose cremation can still participate in more traditional aspects of funeral services. For many families, it can be a difference in when cremation occurs. With some families, the tra...