You can, but it isn't a good idea.

Your family member may be fine to work with. However he or she should fit the same criteria as if you were looking for that perfect agent. Go out with that family member a few times and get a feel for their style. I also recommend going out with an agent that you interviewed. Bottom line is that you want someone that will work solely for you and put your wants and needs first. Also, sign an agent to work with you when you feel comfortable. Dont have more than one agent. It gets too confusing for everyone. Once you feel good about your agent, you are one step closer to buying the perfect house. good luck!!!

If you were selling the answer would definitely be "yes," because then you would have 2 firms marketing your property and could benefit from multiple approaches to it's sale.

But since you are buying, you should audition each for a limited period of time and then decide which one you feel most compelled to work with. For example, you may find your family resource not as pro-active, etc. with you as a stranger, or vice versa.