Bank of the west typically charges a higher interest rate. Essex bank is another spin off of the same company offering lower refi rates for the same loan. Essex knowingly complys with BOW if a loan is being paid at a higher rate and the borrower is asking for a lower interest rate never missed a payment and been on time for 5 years. They will automatically deny the borrower for any concocted reason they can. User's recommendation: Do NOT USE EITHER BANK.