Warrenty or Quit Claim Deed to Avoid Short Sale

[Derek Clark]

My neighbor came to me a few days ago and mentioned that he will possibly be selling is home via short sale. Him and I are in pretty good standing so I have been trying to find a way that I can purchase his home to add to my rental portfolio because I have 3 rentals in the area and his home is in great shape and would need absolutely nothing as far as repairs, etc. and its across the street from my primary residence so I would like to have some control over who moves into the house. 

Would it make sense for me to approach him about doing a Warranty or Quit Claim deed to get him out of the mortgage and I take over the payments and ownership of the home and prevent him from foreclosure? Also, my understanding is he is going the short sale route to avoid foreclosure? Is that correct? 

I would much appreciate any advise on how I could pull this deal off via a Warranty or Quit Claim deed while also making it beneficial for him and his family. Thanks a lot!