Not sure what this frame would cost from Stevens or NS - or if they even sell frame only.
The only thing I could find in this weight/geo class for $2000 is the 2019 Sniper NM which would be comparable to the standard layup FM936 in weight and geo. It's $500 more for the SL version from Intense.
If you're small you could find that Beti SB100 (the Yeti SB100 is still over $3k) for $2200, but it's about 5.5lbs and not quite as slack so the standard FM936 would still be lighter.
I've got about $1100 into the FM936 frame (superlight, no paint) with a Fox Factory shock (took a couple of weeks to find a decent deal). Even if it's a hot mess I doubt I'll lose any more money than if I went with a name brand. The resale on used bikes is pretty bad anyway (for the seller).