Drainage issue

[Todd Willhoite]

I am looking at making an offer on a house with a crawl space.  It is on a very flat lot and has a problem with water standing around the foundation, and under the house.  It was built in the 1960's and apparently the moisture has caused the flooring to rot and has given way.  I am trying to think of a way to address the lack of drainage.  Don't want to repair the floor, just to have it rot again.  I can't imagine a french drain working because there is no lower point to run it to.  What about putting down a plastic water barrier under the house?   (Would a bank loan on it with this solution?) Any other possible solutions?  I need to get a handle on this so I can factor the cost into any bid on the place.