I was able to have the appraisal waived and a few other costs lowered.

I don't do this often but by asking for Fee worksheets that roll closing costs into the mortgage payment it's easier to do a comparison of multiple offers.
Taxes and insurance being the same no matter what, looking at the monthly payments with costs included provides an easy comparison.

For me, the lower rates with higher fees still come out with a lower monthly payment.

you'll have your house paid for in fifteen years rather than twenty-four years. That's nine more years for you to put your house payment amount towards your retirement.