Whether you’re doing your own funeral pre-planning or making arrangements for a loved one who has recently passed, choosing a funeral home is a big decision. The right home and team will help you through the entire process and respectfully carry out your wishes while saving you money and stress. Use the guide below to help you choose the right services.

How to Choose a Funeral Home

What to Look For

The three major factors to consider when selecting a home are the location, pricing, and services offered. If a convenient location is important to you, then choose a funeral home that's near the family. Keep in mind that all homes offer a complimentary pickup radius for the body — typically 20 or 30 miles — before they will charge extra fees to come to you. For pricing, consider a target budget. Ask for a pricing sheet when you visit the home, as they are required by law to give out itemized pricing lists. Finally, think of the services that are most important to you. Will they understand and offer services according to your religion or culture?

How to Find It

If you have any nearby friends or family who have recently planned a funeral, start with asking them who they worked with and whether they recommend them. The web is a great resource as well. You can search funeral homes in your area, then look up those homes on customer review sites to get a feel for their service. It’s also smart to check with the Better Business Bureau® to see their rating if they have one. When you’ve narrowed down your search, meet with the funeral director of the home to see whether they are compassionate, knowledgeable, and otherwise comfortable to work with.

By taking the time to find the right funeral home, you’ll enjoy a stress-free planning process and can trust that all your wishes will be met. The right director can make all the difference in the planning experience for you and your family. The team at Whitley’s Funeral Home in Kannapolis, NC, is a trusted funeral home serving Cabarrus and Rowan counties. They provide various funeral services and will work with your budget to get you the service you want without overspending. Contact them at (714) 933-2222 to start pre-planning for yourself or to plan a service for a loved one now.