A little non-tech, but:
Paul FYI: the huge grass lawn could be planted with beech or black walnut or other prized-wood trees which would also increase the property value in time.
In addition, apple/cherry/etc trees .. would attract wildlife (read:back porch hunting), provide food and activity for kids, or use as a side buisness.
People have also been profitable growing rare/gourmet plants for local resteraunts and *****ake mushrooms in the side shed. Or put in some catfish ponds.
No need to pay taxes for "dead" space unless the football team is scheduled to practice, there is a wildfire threat, or the indians are attacking
.