[CA] Update: Rate dropped from 6.375% to 5.625% after I started asking questions — LO is also my agent (Sus?)

Here's my original post https://www.reddit.com/r/RealEstate/s/JjOBURaYeu

Basically, based off what everyone was telling me in my last post was that with my 800+ score I should be getting a way better rate so I started asking LO questions. Here's what happened

Working with a loan officer who is also my real estate agent? Initially quoted 6.375% on a 30-year conventional, 5% down condo ($437k loan). Both my partner and I were on the loan (my score 806, partner 728), and I later learned lenders price based on the lower score.

After asking more questions and mentioning I might shop around for rates and that I might apply solo since I qualify on my own income, my LO came back saying Rocket offers “enhancements” for 780+ scores and suddenly had much better options:

5.875% → $1,100 lender credit

5.625% → ~$730 in points

5.500% → ~$2,277 in points

From what I learned, “enhancements” basically means adjusting pricing/commission flexibility. It felt odd that the better deal only appeared after I started questioning and considering other lenders.

I confirmed with another well reviewed LO that 5.625% with minimal points is very competitive, so I went with it.

Curious if others have had rates improve this much after pushing back or shopping? I'll definitely look elsewhere when it comes time to REFI.

Also where are people getting low 5% rates??? I looked at some model credit Unions and Best they are offering are 5.5 with 4k points etc.

How did I do after negotiating a bit more?