You hear it everywhere, including on Bankrate: You need strong credit to get a home equity loan, and the higher your credit score, the lower your rate. While that’s true, a less-than-sterling score — or no score at all — doesn’t automatically disqualify you from home equity loans and HELOCs. Here are our picks for some of the best lenders for low- or bad-credit borrowers and tips on how to find the right one for you.

Best home equity lenders for low or bad credit

Availability: 16 states and Washington, D.C.

Home equity products: Home equity loans & HELOCs

Minimum credit score requirement: 620 for home equity loans, 660 for HELOCs

Funds available in: Undisclosed

Where to find: Online

Availability: Every U.S. state except Hawaii

Home equity products: Adjustable- and fixed-rate HELOCs

Minimum credit score requirement: 600

Funds available in : 5 days

Where to find: Online

Availability : All U.S.…