Choosing from among Funeral Service Providers

Surveys show that funeral is the most expensive among the services one has to buy. An average funeral will cost you up to $7,000. When combined with the extra services like flowers and acknowledgement cards, you can expect to spend thousands more, up to $12,000. However, a careful choice can help you save huge. Do the following and give an honorable funeral to your loved one without breaking the bank.

Funeral service providers: Tips on choosing

An understanding of your rights and obligations is the key to success in getting affordable service when planning to give a dignified burial for your loved one. Know that if you request for funeral arrangements in person, you have the right to see a detailed list of the services offered and the cost of the same. You should also be allowed to buy casket from other service providers if you wish to do so. The home is also obliged to show the selections available with it upon request. It is also barred from pressurizing you to go for any package it considers will fit your requirements. Following are the other factors which deserve utmost attention when selecting a funeral service provider.

1. Do comparison

Comparison shopping for funeral may appear difficult. But, it doesn’t have to if you arrange everything in advance. To be true, this is the best way if budget is a concern. Comparing prices allows you to go for only those items you need most. The generally recommended way is to contact 2-3 homes on phone and request a price chart. They are legally obliged to furnish all the details you require.

2. Explore the Internet

The easiest way to gather information on the funeral homes in your area is doing an online search. This will be of great help if you are grieving the loss of your loved one. Having to talk to people at this time can be too stressful to handle. Check the online reputation of your choice service providers and take a decision accordingly. You can also read customer testimonials.

3. Does the ownership of your choice home matter?

There exists a trend known as "consolidation" in the industry. A funeral home may claim to be locally owned and operated. In fact, it will be a part of a national chain. If the ownership of the funeral home matters to you, enquire about it. It may either be independent or locally owned.

4. Go for package deals

All the reliable funeral providers offer package deals. They may include the services you don’t need. But, they would be quite affordable when compared to buying everything separately. Compare different package deals and choose the one offering only the services you need.

5. You should feel comfortable with the staff

Funeral is a stressful time. And, the people who work with you should be in a position to understand it. You should have no difficulty to express concerns or enquire about a service you need when arranging the same.

Searching for funeral service providers even during the time of distress is not that difficult. All you need are these simple guidelines.

Funeral services from Old Mission Cemetery are proven, that is for sure. This is the oldest cemetery in San Diego Metro. Contact them at San Luis Rey - Cemetery or call (760)231-8445, ext. 133 or ext. 139.

Todd Dawson Is a freelance writer