Loan Amount vs. Home Value/Purchase Price

[James Letchford]

I recently found a great buy and hold opportunity close to where I grew up in New Jersey.  The home is listed at $85k, but I'm certain I can get it for cheaper.  The home will need some improvements, but the comps in the area sit around $150k.  I've been approved for a loan and have the needed amount for a downpayment.  

Here's the catch:  Because this is an investment property and the loan amount is relatively small, I've been approved for is $93,750 (and no less) to 'protect' me from a high cost mortgage.

Here's my question:  I'd like to purchase this home for $70k (or less), but need to keep the loan amount at $93,750.  Is there a way to get the remaining ~$23,750 back in my pocket somehow?  

Can I wrap this delta into the improvements somehow?  Is there a way to agree upon a price with the seller and then I receive a "buyer's credit?"  Can the difference be used, somehow, towards the downpayment?  

Any help would be very much appreciated.

[Patsy Waldron]

Look into the Fannie Mae Homestyle loan. It is similar to FHA's 203K loan, except it can be used for investment properties.