July 17, 2011--NORFOLK -- Ever dreamed of owning a bed and breakfast? Now's your chance.

The former Freemason Inn Bed and Breakfast in Norfolk will be up for auction next month. The B&B closed last year after its owner, attorney Robert Epstein, died in April.

"The estate maintained it in immaculate condition," said William Summs, CEO of Atlantic Asset Management Group, which will conduct the on-site auction at 12:30 p.m. Aug. 17. "It's as though the last guest left this morning."

Epstein bought the building, which dates to the 1890s, for $129,000 about a decade ago, spent $400,000 on renovations and opened the B&B in early 2003. The auction company says it's now worth $530,000.

The building on York Street, near Botetourt Street, is listed as having 2½ stories with a half-basement. It includes "four rental suites with modern luxury bathrooms," a commercial kitchen and a jacuzzi. Outside is a courtyard, where small weddings can be held. The inn's contents, including artwork, stemware, linens and period furniture, also will be auctioned.

The 4,300-square-foot building will be open to the public 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 5.

More information is available at http://atlanticremarketing.com.

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