I wouldn't bother with an IMC per se. The instrument experience is great, but if you are going almost straight to an IR the IMC rating itself is of no use. You will waste money on the preparation or the test. Perhaps use the money to get the instrument training you need for emergencies and lead in to IR. I went into the IR course with unusually high instrument experience (about 45 hours) and it was a breeze, certainly easier than the CPL.