Cost explosion even before it really gets started

A lot is coming together. For example, there is still no construction sign hanging because the young architect did not properly submit the drainage application and had to revise it, so we were not allowed to start yet. We said several times that we would rather wait a bit longer than get into any trouble, but he said it would be okay. Then he didn’t prepare the specifications entirely himself but had a company come and create an offer. He then removed the prices from it and made the specifications. Is this a common procedure? If so, I didn’t say anything about it...

Architect fees are calculated at what amount?

So honestly... it doesn't sound quite normal to me that no one asked whether it was okay if it got more expensive, nor asked what should be done differently/left out if it would otherwise become significantly more expensive than planned. Although it is true that there are certain tolerances regarding how much over the budget it may ultimately be, I find it (even if it may be legally permissible) not exactly customer-oriented without any word of warning... to put it mildly.

I have read your 2 threads. I also have teachers in the family. Teachers and architects are two species that just don't get along. You are the type of teacher who thinks she knows everything and wants to do everything right but only complains on the internet. The architect just does it. A tip for you: write down everything in detail that annoys you and went wrong, write your amount: 300,000€ and then confront the architect! You urgently need to clarify where this is heading and communicate your concerns to him! We can help you 0. Calculate realistic numbers and talk to the bank as soon as possible.

I have now also read through both threads, but there is a lot of text and maybe I missed it: Have you ever signed a contract? For example, for the shell construction?

We also built with architects and discussed all requests with the offer comparisons together to decide who should get the contract. Then the contract was awarded accordingly. And the contract was awarded by us. WE as the client are the principals, so I know BEFORE awarding the contract what the person "wants" to get (according to the offer). BEFORE the building application is submitted, you have to know where the journey is going!

What I also don’t understand: you inevitably have to work with the architect(s) for many months. In my opinion, the chemistry should be right, you have to be able to trust. I certainly hear the fleas cough often, but you become skeptical when, after so many inquiries, you don’t get a satisfactory answer from the "expert"! I probably would have shown him the door a long time ago...

I absolutely agree with – I read here anything but cautious approach

Unfortunately, this insight doesn’t help you at all right now. Therefore: grab the architect as soon as possible. Plain speaking must be done – in all directions! And question your gut feeling: do you want to carry out an entire build with the previous "performance" of the architect?

Better an end with horror...

Full agreement but the OP needs professional support if he is building with single contracts. Try to find someone who takes over from work phase 4 onwards...