Don't sod the whole thing. Only sod where it will track into the house if
not
sodded. Plant perennials, trees and shrubs in the soil where there is not
sod
and use mulch. If you don't want plants, just use mulch. It will take at
least
two full years to fill in if you checkerboard.

That's right, use lots of mulch. Use mulch everywhere! It will take LESS
than two years for the termites to take over your house.