Want a home equity loan? Here's a tip for you that can save you a lot of money and an equal amount of grief. If you decide a home equity loan is right for you, talk with several lenders, including at least one bank, savings and loan, or credit union in your community. Their loans may cost less than loans from finance companies. And don't assume that if you're on a fixed income or have credit problems, you won't qualify for a loan from a bank, savings and loan, or credit union--they may have the loan you want! Shop the links on this page to make sure the local lenders have a good deal. Sometimes you can get a better deal on the net, but to find it, you must compare different loan packages.