The fact that they have 4 acres of land is much more valuable to his kids than having to share that property with a bunch of other people in the city, in my opinion. There is room to expand, build, hike, bike, walk, climb a tree, breathe fresh air that doesn't smell like pavement, enjoy nature.
Plus, who said they don't like cold weather? I grew up on the East Coast and I love Winter. I love seasons. I love snowboarding and hiking in the Winter.
I lived in SF for a while and didn't really enjoy it at all. Too much congestion, too many people and no fresh air. I could barely see the stars at night.
That being said. To each their own.