A distinctive former church near Sunderland is drawing attention in Durham Region after being listed as a luxury residence for $1,299,900, complete with preserved architectural features and an unusual property-tax detail linked to a small cemetery on the site.
The Sunderland church home at 16205 Sideroad 17A in Rural Brock has been converted from a place of worship into a modern residence while retaining many features that reflect its original use. The listing describes more than 4,000 square feet of above-grade living space, plus a finished lower level, with five bedrooms and four bathrooms.
Historic architecture meets modern design
Inside, the home combines contemporary finishes with elements from the former church. The main living area features high ceilings, exposed wood beams, original brick details and large Gothic-style windows that allow natural light to fill the space.
A designer kitchen includes quartz countertops, a waterfall island, custom cabinetry and a Viking professional range. The primary bedroom incorporates original beams and includes a walk-in closet and a spa-style ensuite with a glass shower and soaker tub.
The property also includes a finished lower level with additional bedrooms, a second kitchen and a separate entrance, making the layout suitable for extended family or flexible living arrangements.
Outside, the rural lot offers extensive parking and open countryside surroundings.
Listing shows $0 property taxes for 2026
One of the most unusual details connected to the Sunderland church home is its current property-tax listing.
The real estate listing shows property taxes of $0 for 2026 and says the status is connected to maintenance of the small on-site cemetery. The cemetery is located near the property and contains several historic graves.
That detail may attract attention from buyers, but it should not be treated as a permanent guarantee. Property assessments, exemptions and tax treatment can change, so any prospective buyer would need to independently confirm the current and future tax situation with the appropriate municipal and assessment authorities before completing a purchase.
Cemetery links property to Brock Township history
The small cemetery beside the former church adds a significant historical connection to the property.
Among those buried there is Colonel James Vrooman, a War of 1812 veteran who became an important early settler in what is now Brock Township. Historical records describe Vrooman as a member of the Glengarry Light Infantry Fencibles who served in several engagements during the war.
After the conflict, Vrooman received land in Brock Township and settled in the area around 1820. He later played a major role in developing the settlement known as Vroomanton, northwest of present-day Sunderland.
Vroomanton once included mills, stores, blacksmiths, churches, schools and other businesses before declining after railway development shifted commercial activity toward Sunderland.
Vrooman and members of his family were buried at the church cemetery. His military service was formally recognized in 2014 when a veterans’ plaque was installed at his grave.
A rare listing in Rural Brock
The Sunderland church home is currently listed under MLS N13477096 in Rural Brock. The asking price is $1,299,900 after a price reduction from $1,349,900.
The residence stands out from a typical rural listing because it combines a large converted worship space, modern luxury finishes and a direct connection to local history.
For buyers interested in distinctive architecture, the property offers preserved church features alongside updated residential amenities. At the same time, the cemetery and reported tax arrangement make it important for any purchaser to understand the legal, maintenance and tax responsibilities connected to the land.
The listing remains a rare example of how a historic Durham Region building has been adapted for modern residential use while keeping visible links to Brock Township’s early settlement history.
