Starting a Cemetery Business
First, understand the process. An LLC provides the best structure, being fast and simple. Consider pros and cons before deciding if it’s right for you. Providing a valuable service, cemeteries exist in every community.
We guide you through steps to start your cemetery business. Proper planning, registration and legal compliance are ensured. Choosing the right name is challenging. If a sole proprietorship, you may want to operate under a business name.
Here we outline steps for success. Learn sourcing equipment, gaining licensure, marketing services. Conduct research to assess the need for a cemetery. Determining viability establishes profitability.
Consulting Experts and Obtaining Licenses
First, consult experts like directors or consultants. Their insights guide your start. From legal tips to maintenance, they help every step. For entrepreneurs, here’s starting with licensing and permitting before running. Researching licensing and permits requires preparation.
Cemetery Investments
Cemeteries require big investments to start. Maintenance needs eternal commitments. Owners handle grieving families’ expectations daily. Cemeteries fall into three categories: less than full, close to full, filled up. We look at revenue sources in each and industry changes.
Less than full cemeteries sell plots. Opening and closing graves brings income. Landscaping, staffing and operations cost money. Marketing and meeting regulations take funds too.
Close to full cemeteries have little room left. They sell remaining plots at higher prices. Many states make cemeteries save money in perpetual care trusts. Interest from trusts supports future upkeep.
Private companies now target investors who buy plots upfront then resell at a profit later. Online platforms help attract such investors.
Rules allow reusing old graves after tenure expires. So cemeteries needn’t stop operations. Still, space limits long-term revenue. Costs continue while income falls over time. Cemeteries must find new ways to sustain themselves.