I agree, taking a large plc housebuilder can be costly and daunting. The fact they know this means they can resist and treat their customers badly.
Recently the government announced the creation of a statutory New Homes Ombudsman - something I have campaigned for over the last four years. which will change this.
Not all specialist solicitors are greedy, charging buyers up to £390 an hour.
Some will work on a no win no fee basis, and you should get legal expenses insurance with you home insurance which can pay all legal costs if they believe you have more than a 50% chance of winning.
IN addition there is a the Small Claims court which is relatively inexpensive but you can only claim monies owned not compensation.