Building with an architect - really cheaper?

Why do you think so? There is a budget that the architect has to adhere to, right??

The architect plans and estimates the costs. If commissioned to do so, he also requests quotes. Only with the offers do you have the actual costs (once everything is complete).

Doesn't it then have to be very precisely agreed what is included in this price? One is quickly overwhelmed with that. Or do you then need a second architect to control the first one?

You can align with the phases described in the HOAI. No, you need no more a second architect than a second pair of shoelaces on your shoes.

Just go to the architect for an initial consultation and gather knowledge.

Hm, can you just "go there" like that? Shouldn't you better already know what you want then?

Hm, can you just "go there" like that? Shouldn't you better already know what you want?

Yes, you can. Who's stopping you? Yes, you should have at least a rough idea. Unfortunately, you fish in so many "as cheap as possible" ponds that maybe a professional should pick you up sometime.

Unfortunately, you fish in so many "as cheap as possible" ponds that maybe a professional should pick you up sometime

One should first clarify whether fishing is even worthwhile. Maybe then it will be clear that you cannot do deep sea fishing with a toy fishing rod.

Unfortunately, you fish in so many "as cheap as possible" ponds that maybe a professional should pick you up sometime

and many others are simply right. Certain services simply have their price. No forum can help with that. When you buy a car, the same model costs roughly the same at different dealers. Sure, you can vary the brand and equipment. It's the same with a house. Indeed, find yourself a construction supervisor/advisor.