07/10/2008 11:07 PM ET

SNOW HILL, Md. - The historic Snow Hill Inn is up for auction in a few weeks, and residents said they hope the rundown building can be restored to a successful bed and breakfast once again.

"I want to see it completely renovated but keep the character that it had," said Jim Adcock, owner of Adcock Studios.

Adcock said he used to dine at the Snow Hill Inn frequently in the 1990's. But over the years he has had to watch the inn deteriorate from his building across the street.

"It's disappointing," Adcock said. "But the fact that it's up for auction is encouraging."

The deed for the Snow Hill Inn will go on the auction block July 25 at 5:30 p.m. in front of the inn. Auctioneer Pete Richardson said he has already walked a few interested buyers through the mansion that dates back to 1835. He said he has high hopes for this property.

"I would like to see a lawn full of people who want to restore this place to a bed and breakfast or an individual family home," Richardson said. "We want someone who will enjoy this property and be a good custodian."

Snow Hill residents said the new owner will acquire not only a historic mansion but a ghost as well.

"People have told me they've seen the ghost in the front window," said Adcock. "People that have been in Snow Hill awhile."

Legend has it, back in the 1800's the son of a doctor who owned the mansion took his life in his bedroom. Some people said you can see him watching from the window. Adcock said the ghost story adds even more character to the popular inn.

"I think it's interesting," Adcock said. "A little folk-lore."

Auctioneer Pete Richardson said the legend will not affect interested buyers. He said his only concern is selling the mansion in today's struggling real estate market.

"We're in a very depressed market right now," said Adcock. "We're hoping there could be a lot of excitement about this sale but it's hard to tell."

People in Snow Hill said they are hoping a new owner can bring the inn back to life.