Getting Financing For Repairs (After FHA)

[Skyler Hair]

I have a property that we're considering that needs about $15,000-$25,000 worth of rehab. I am a first-time home buyer and qualify for an FHA loan. I am wondering about the feasibility of a private loan right after securing a mortgage. My buyer agent recommends against a FHA 203k due to how aggressive our market is. The home is a great value as-is but my wife would not be happy there without the repairs. Is there any way I can finance even some of these repairs?

Additional note: I read somewhere that a traditional FHA loan (203b) can allow for up to an additional $5000 for repairs. Can anyone speak to that?

THANKS!!