How can I sway this person's decision to "yes"?

I got laid off a while ago and I had to move home to my parent’s house in Washington. I’ve never had a place to my own ever and I’m getting a little antsy because there’s a family friend’s property less than a half a mile away that has a single wide. Just perfect for one person. He’s a really good family friend and we know each other well.
I’ve asked him before about living there. His answer was not really. The reason wasn’t because of me or my family, it was because his past tenants had screwed up the property. I’ve been inside and there isn’t that much damage. There might be things I don’t see, but it’s definately nothing that can’t be fixed. I’ve offered to clean it up myself, but I’m not sure what else I can do. I’m hoping that with persistance I can sway his decision, but what else can I do?