How to go about purchasing property from relatives of a friend?

[Ryan Howard]

So recently my friend tells me that his late great grandmothers house had been broken into and vandalized, the house is vacant and is owned by his grandfather. They want nothing to do with the property. With me currently trying to get my first deal done I see this as a golden opportunity. If I'm able to purchase the house I plan on using a heloc to purchase and do the rehab, undecided on weather to flip or use the brrrr strategy. I am very familiar with the area and it is a nice place to live. My problem is I have asked my friend multiple times to speak with his grandfather to see if he would be willing to sell me the house. And it seems I always get an excuse. Would it be wrong if I were to go straight to his grandfather and talk to him or should I continue to ask my friend to talk to him for me. What is the best way to go about this situation?