Has anyone out there had trouble refinancing w/ bank and better luck with a broker? I heard a few stories about people who tried to refinance with their bank and either had horrible customer service experiences and/or were not considered, but when the broker got involved, the refinance happened and the homeowner was pleased with the result.

There was an article that BofA was basically telling their clients to call back another time or that it would take 120+ days to refi.

Probably just depends on the bank.

go with a broker; i like lending tree. they take a no-nonsense approach, no surprises

Banks are still reluctant to loan on equity, even if you have a $2mm paid off apartment and want $500K.
Loans are highly income driven today.

I just refinanced a 15 year at 6% (which I already payed almost 5 years) to 15 years at 3.5%.
Way more paper work and docs involved now then the original loan required, but I ultimately closed. Took about 2 months but was worth it. I have pristine credit, high paying salary (doctor), but it was still an ordeal, and it seemed like the bank wants to find any excuse to deny the refi. Make sure you do CEMA so you don't have to the ny mortgage tax twice.