New build problems and the additional

[GoodGrief]

We picked a regional builder to build our out-of-state vacation property. Everything went well in the beginning. We were prequalified through a lender. We worked closely with both the builder and the lender to provide everything they needed immediately upon request. After several visits with the builder, we turned their $250,000 model into plans for our $500,000 dream house and rental investment. The lender was fine with this amount and said we had some wiggle room still. We continued meeting the builders deadlines. All along the way we asked about having the land (we already owned) surveyed and having the site for the house staked out. The lot is under half an acre in the mountains, so there was concern for how it would fit. We were basically told it would be scheduled and we continued to meet the needs of the builder and the lender. We continued by having the necessary appraisal for the lender which came in at $750,000. Shortly there after, we closed on the loan. Finally, the builder scheduled the survey. They had seen the lot previously but this time with clear property lines. They then proceeded to tell us it will cost and additional $55,000 due to the slope of the land to build a sub wall under the basement. Our only option to cover this is financing and the loan has closed. To finance, we will have to go back through the entire loan process to create a new loan that will pay off the remaining closing charges that were rolled into the first construction loan and then allow for the higher amount. But we will have to pay for a second round of closing costs. We hoped the builder would have a conscience and remove some fees that would be equal to the second round of closing costs. We hate to think they are being greedy because of the high appraisal, but still think having the survey is a no brainer before you close on a loan. Why choose paint and trim colors for a house until you know it fits where you want it? We most likely would have proceeded with building knowing the need for a sub wall, but we wouldn’t have to go through a second round of financing had we known this upfront. Now, not only will they not help to cover the new closing expenses, they also want to charge us another $20,000 because the base price of the home will go up before we are done with the second closing. We have always taking care of any of their request in the same day but this is out of our control. Is any of this ethical or legal in the building world? At what point is there a limit on how much they could charge in the future? We are approaching $600,000 for a house now and a payment that we will barely be able to afford. If we choose to cut our ties, we will still be out about $15,000 for all of our expenses so far. Is there anything to be done?

[ploddertom]

"Is there anything to be done?"

You may need to find someone nearer home to help you. We are based in the UK.