Facts and Figures

 

The land

Acres: 10.05

Use:

• 5.5 acres of hay fields

• 2.5 acres for house, barn, gardens, and groves

• 1 acre enrolled in CREP nature preserve

• 1 acre vegetable garden and orchard.

Access: The property is reached via a private lane with a deeded

right-of-way that ensures access in perpetuity.

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Energy

In late 2007, 30 solar panels were installed on the barn roof and registered with PJM-EIS, and Pennsylvania Power and Light as a solar producer. This means that the produced electricity flows into the grid literally turning the meter backward. In addition, we arranged to sell Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) through Srectrade. These certificates - earned for each unit of solar electricity generated - are conveyed to utilities and companies required to meet renewable-energy standards. For our 2008 production to 2024 production we received $21,291 in income. Over the past 5 years, our average yearly electricity bill was $930. Win for the environment, win for us.

 

Ownership of the system is transferable.

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In 2009, we installed a solar hot water system for the house.

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Internet, phone, and mobile service

The property has high-speed internet and phone service. Cell phone reception on the property is strong. These services have supported us in operating an international company from 1993 to 2024. 

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Water 

Water is supplied by a private well: a 40-foot hand-dug section plus 180 feet drilled that provides a highly reliable supply. A Reverse Osmosis (RO) system, installed in 2022, further ensures drinking-water quality.

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Sewer

The house has an on-site septic system that is maintained and inspected in compliance with West Cocalico Township regulations.

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Heating and cooling

From 1987 to 1995, the primary heat source was a large, cast iron coal stove in the kitchen - still present - augmented by electric baseboard. In 1995, a central hot-water baseboard heating system was installed throughout the house with four independent zones for efficient, even heating.

The house does not have central air conditioning. Comfort is maintained through mature shade trees, strategic shading of sun-exposed windows, a whole-house fan that expels hot air in late afternoon, the naturally insulating log-cabin construction, a  fixed AC unit in the wall of the upstairs study, and a few mobile AC units for the rare days of high temperatures with high humidity.

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Taxes

The property is enrolled in the Clean-and-Green program. This enrollment benefits the environment and  substantially reduces property taxes. In 2025, property taxes due were $3,146.

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