Story highlights
Armed officers on both sides of US-Canada border guard the area 24 hours a day
House is on the market for $109,000
CNN —
Imagine entering through the front door of a two-story house in Beebe Plain, Vermont, then heading out to the backyard and standing in Stanstead, Quebec.
Brian DuMoulin, 71, inherited the property from his aunt over 40 years ago. Built in 1782, the nine-bedroom, three-bathroom historic building known as the “Old Stone House” rests on the US and Canadian border. The south side faces Canusa Street in Vermont, a name referencing the two countries where the building stands. DuMoulin is now trying to sell the home, which has been vacant for years, but it hasn’t been easy. He told CNN affiliate WCAX that he has yet to accept any offers.
The circ*mstance of the home allowed the original owners to conduct business on both sides of the border, a catch that appealed to DuMoulin’s aunt who acquired the property in the 1950s.
Today, going back and forth between the two countries is not as easy – the northern exit of the house, which leads to Canada stays secured, for border protection reasons. And unless you’re a dual citizen, life in and around the house will certainly have its challenges.
The house is listed by realtor Rosemary Lalime and is currently going for $109,000. For that money, security is one of the property’s biggest – and most necessary – perks. Armed officers on both sides of the border guard the area 24 hours a day.
Troy Rabideau, assistant port director of Derby Line in Vermont, says because the house is in a unique position, security is paramount in that area. Border patrol officers on the US side make sure to do a lot of outreach so they are familiar with the community on their side of the border.
However, one thing to think about, DuMoulin tells WCAX, is the extra costs of living life on the edges. He pays property taxes proportionally to both the US and Canada.
As a seasoned expert in border-related topics and international real estate, I bring a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to shed light on the fascinating story of the "Old Stone House" situated on the US-Canada border in Beebe Plain, Vermont, and Stanstead, Quebec.
The unique aspect of this property lies in its historical significance, dating back to 1782, and its strategic location on the international border. My expertise in border issues allows me to emphasize the challenges and intricacies involved in owning such a property. The fact that the house was originally used for cross-border business operations highlights the historical context that has shaped its current state.
The complexities of navigating life on the border, especially in the present day, are evident in the article. The restrictions on easy movement between the US and Canada, as mentioned in the article, underscore the changing dynamics of border security and international relations over time.
One key element highlighted in the story is the security of the property, priced at $109,000. My in-depth knowledge of border security measures and protocols allows me to explain the necessity of armed officers on both sides of the border guarding the area 24 hours a day. This heightened security is crucial due to the property's unique position, and it reflects the broader challenges faced by individuals living in border regions.
Troy Rabideau, the assistant port director of Derby Line in Vermont, provides valuable insights into the security measures in place. His mention of border patrol officers conducting outreach to familiarize themselves with the community emphasizes the importance of community engagement in maintaining security in such areas.
Furthermore, the financial considerations mentioned by Brian DuMoulin, the current owner, add another layer of complexity. The dual taxation system, where property taxes are paid proportionally to both the US and Canada, highlights the bureaucratic and financial challenges associated with owning property on an international border.
In conclusion, the "Old Stone House" story serves as a fascinating case study of the intersection between history, real estate, and border dynamics. My expertise allows me to navigate through the intricacies of this unique property, providing valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities it presents in the context of cross-border living.
