Cliff, I only payed $5800 including installation, transfer panel and taxes for a 10,000 watt unit and that is more than enough for my home. It easily runs my furnace, water and sump pump, fridge and freezer, lights, computer and TV's and my garage plus just about anything else I need. I've tested it several times turning everything on and it does just fine. I asked them if I should bump up to a 17,000 watt system and was assured it wasn't needed.
Call the Generator Center in Peterboro...705-931-0938
Great folks to deal with.
My neighbor just revamped his home and wanted a big 1500 litre tank like I have but was told the same as you, that it needed to be away from the house, but he was able to get 2 smaller tanks set right beside his house. I'm not sure what size they are....maybe 400 litres each ??
I deal with Kelly's propane and their great. They delivered and installed my large tank and hooked up the propane lines for free and I only pay something like $2 per month for the rental.