can I deal with a bank directly about a house I want to buy from a private person?

[Linda Pierce]

There is a vacant house I have been eyeing. I finally got to meet the owner the other day and found out she would love to just get rid of the house. The problem is when I run the numbers at 60% ARV, I come up with a conservative $85,000. She said they still owe $135,000 in loans plus unpaid mortgage payments. Is there anyway I can help her out? Or do I just have to walk away. I would really like to structure a deal, but I am completely new and don't know if a case like this is worth pursuing. Can I contact the bank directly and try to work out a short sale to prevent foreclosure? Thank you for any help.