Homesteaders Blog

What Is an Estate Plan, and Why Do You Need One?

Many people assume estate planning is only for the wealthy — those who own big homes or have large bank accounts — or people who are older. But here’s the truth: Everyone has an estate, which means everyone needs an estate plan.

Questions You Should Ask About Your Funeral Home Business Strategy

In a profession that’s rooted in supporting communities through a legacy of service, it’s worth noting the behind-the-scenes work funeral service leaders do to propel their businesses forward. They’re thinking strategically not just about what’s happening in the day-to-day, but also accelerating how they prepare for the future. Their approach is proactive, not reactive — and it’s paying off in significant ways in the form of increased engagement with the community, higher levels of satisfaction and more efficient operations that make it easier to pivot with the preferences of their clients. In turn, they can make the most of their investments into their much-needed community services.

Eco-Friendly Burial Options: A Guide to Green Funerals

As more families prioritize environmental values, eco-friendly burial options are gaining popularity in the funeral space. According to the 2017 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Consumer Awareness and Preferences Survey, 53.8% of respondents indicated an interest in exploring green funeral services. From green burials to biodegradable urns, modern funeral homes are offering solutions that honor loved ones while protecting the planet.

How Funeral Professionals Can Connect with Millennial and Gen Z Consumers

As a funeral professional, chances are you’re not thinking about how to reach younger generations — like Millennials and Generation Z — to create their funeral plans. But should you be?

Trends in Funeral Home Operations

Funeral service has long been rooted in tradition, but technology is transforming the way funeral homes operate and serve families. While some traditional methods can hold a place in funeral homes’ success, many are embracing innovative tools that streamline operations and enhance customer service.

Advice for Funeral Professionals from Funeral Professionals

March 11 marks National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day—a day set aside to honor the dedication, compassion and unwavering service of those who guide families through life’s most challenging moments. Funeral professionals don’t just manage services; they provide comfort, stability and a sense of peace when it’s needed most.

At Homesteaders, we understand this calling on a personal level. Many of our employees are licensed funeral directors and have walked in your shoes. In honor of this day, we asked some of those funeral directors to share their best advice on navigating this deeply meaningful profession with care, resilience and excellence.

Statistics Funeral Professionals Should Know for 2025

The funeral profession is experiencing a period of transformation — shaped by shifts in demographics, technology and consumer behaviors. Funeral professionals must stay informed about emerging trends and statistics to adapt their services effectively and meet the evolving needs of families. From the rise of mobile phone usage to Artificial Intelligence (AI), understanding key statistics can help funeral homes stay ahead of the curve.

Funeral Service Events to Add to Your 2025 Calendar

We’re jumping right into convention season this year and can’t wait to meet new funeral professionals and see familiar faces! Each state and national convention offers a chance to learn more about the funeral profession, meet new people and discover tools and processes to strengthen funeral home businesses. In this post, we’ll highlight the well-known, larger conventions where you can find us this year, but check out our events calendar for a full list of events where you can find Homesteaders team members in 2025.

KPIs to Track for Your Preneed Program

A robust preneed program offers many benefits for funeral homes, such as securing business for the future and increasing awareness and preference for the firm. But how well do you really know the results that your preneed program is driving ­— and what that means for improving your strategies for managing and growing your business?

Beyond the Business: Cultivating Fellowship and Learning in Funeral Service Peer Groups

At Homesteaders Life Company, we understand that funeral service goes beyond providing end-of-life arrangements. It’s about supporting families, fostering meaningful connections and navigating the complexities of grief with care and compassion. For funeral providers, these emotional and professional demands can sometimes lead to feelings of burnout and isolation. That’s why it's important to participate in funeral service peer groups—structured spaces that reconnect professionals with their purpose while fostering fellowship and ongoing learning.

We’ve gathered insights directly from funeral professionals in peer groups to help you understand the value of these communities and how to make the most of them.