Does that mean (consumers will) stop borrowing because it costs them another $5 a month? Probably not. It may influence decisions. I don't think it halts decisions.

You could go to almost any lender and for no fees find yourself with a decent rate.

It doesn't sound like either of them got a particularly good deal.

This would free up cash now, while still minimizing their exposure to rising rates during the period they expect to remain in the house.

Most borrowers have some financial cushion so the impact won't be immediate; spending an extra $380 is manageable at first. But it's safe to say there are some who will find themselves in budgetary difficulties a year or two down the road.

If you re-extend from 15 years back out to 30 years, that might reduce your monthly payment by 30 percent, ... If there isn't a likelihood that you'll pay off your mortgage, the re-extension of the term of your loan could measurably improve your cash flow.