Central Pa. developer transforms historic dairy farm into modern living space

Challenges in the housing market are causing developers to adapt to the preferences of buyers. 

Charter Homes & Neighborhoods is making the most of this opportunity. 

The Lancaster-based developer recently welcomed its 25th family to Grange, a new neighborhood in Carlisle that has been transformed from a century-old dairy farm into a modern living space while preserving 45 acres of land. 

“Seeing families move-in to homes here at Grange and begin to build their own stories on this historic land is incredibly rewarding,” said Charter Homes & Neighborhoods President Rob Bowman. “As a company in the people business, providing places and spaces to build memories is fulfilling.” 

Charter Homes & Neighborhoods recently announced the sale of 55 homes at Grange, Cumberland Valley‘s new farm town. In addition, the announcement introduced the second phase of development of the new construction neighborhood situated on historical farmland in Cumberland County’s Middlesex Township, which is within the Cumberland Valley School District. 

Charter Homes & Neighborhood’s successful sale in the Cumberland Valley region is an example of the company’s new model for national home building. 

The Carlisle neighborhood reflects trends in housing that are important to U.S. homebuyers and the economy, including the following: 

• Multigenerational Living: Grange directly responds to the 60% increase in multigenerational households since 2009. 

• Environmental Innovation: Reflecting Charter’s mission, the neighborhood preserves century-old trees and incorporates pollinator gardens, addressing growing environmental concerns among millennial and Gen Z homebuyers. 

• Historic Preservation: Restored original farmhouse and silo honor the history of the land. 

• Community Focus: 45 acres of natural space, including dedicated gathering spaces and wildflower meadows, challenge the traditional suburban development model. 

Current availability includes two- to three-bedroom townhomes starting in the $340Ks, three- to four-plus-bedroom single family homes starting in the $400Ks, first-floor living homes starting in the $410Ks, and four-bedroom estate homes starting in the $660Ks. 

Amenities include walking trails through The Meadow, a four-acre gathering place with spring wildflowers, and The Grove, which features century-old trees planted by the original Stover Family. 

“As spring approaches, we’re particularly excited to see The Meadow and The Grove come to life, adding natural beauty to the thoughtfully preserved spaces that make this neighborhood so unique,” said Bowman. 

Charter Homes’ goal for Grange was to integrate modern homes with the natural landscape, including the restored family farmhouse and iconic silo that anchor the neighborhood. The design features townhomes, single-family homes, first-floor homes, estates, and local businesses all within one walkable neighborhood. 

“The early success of Grange demonstrates the appeal of our commitment to creating neighborhoods that honor the story of the land while building for the future,” Bowman said. “As more families choose a new home in a neighborhood with character, we look forward to seeing Grange flourish and seeing homeowners make use of neighborhood spaces like Stover Green for upcoming spring and summer activities.” 

Sitework started in October 2023 with the construction of the initial home beginning at the end of March 2024. The first residents moved in during December 2024. The initial phase consists of more than 50 homes split between single family homes and townhomes. Phase 2, which is expected to soon begin construction, has approximately 99 homes, with second phase homes expected to be closing in August-September.  

As with other Charter Homes’ neighborhoods, there will be a Crossroads component in Grange featuring restaurants, retail, and gathering places. 

Established in 1990, Charter Homes & Neighborhoods has delivered more than 6,500 homes. The company is building across Pennsylvania, with locations in Lancaster, Carlisle, Mechanicsburg, and the North and South Hills of Pittsburgh.  

Among its awards and honors, Charter Homes & Neighborhoods has been recognized as a “Best Place to Work in PA” and “Best Builder to Work for” by Builder Magazine.