The question that sticks out is why he would make a statement like that on 4 yr old AC condenser. Deserves an explanation. I assume that the complete HVAC system was checked out...either air handler or furnace/evap coil...was it?...same age as condenser...matching system?...have you run the AC?...both wobble and vibration should be gone...was the condenser fan motor replaced?...I doubt it...it should be checked out but probably too late considering your closing date.

IMO

Thanks tigerdunes. Were you questioning the original inspector's statement, or the repair guy's? I believe it's a fully matched system and the whole system was checked out by the inspector (all good apart from this). The repair implies the sound/wobble is now under control but suggests condenser should be replaced if it returns- it has not BEEN replaced but I am debating asking for that to be done though it will complicate the sale since we close this week. Appreciate your input

"Recommendations- if problem persists may need new condenser'."

Why? That statement deserves an explanation whoever said it.

IMO

OK good, thanks, that's exactly what raised my concern. I appreciate your insight. This is all rather stressful for a newby....

So- it turns out there was a page two! The recommendation was actually 'if problem persists may need new condenser FAN BLADE'. Which would seem to make more sense (rather than replacing the condenser) and is (as far as I can see) a cheap and simple fix if needed. Does that sound correct? Thanks so much

get a quote on both fan blades and condenser fan motor...I think this repair was more of a bandaid than a full professional repair. I am sure seller wants to get out as cheap as possible. Was the shaft on fan motor even examined for wear? If you have doubts, have your tech check it out. Might be worth the cost. Will not take long.

IMO

Thank you so much, I really appreciate your advice, I'll do that now

Ask your realtor to obtain a whole house warranty for you.

Thanks Jim- actually the homeowner included one in the sale, so that's another level of protection. She's been very cooperative along the way, I'm just very cautious since this is my first time. Appreciate the input.

3rd party whole house warranties are very problematic which you will find out if you have a claim...

IMO

"'isolated guards to fan and condenser with cork-rubber. Placed isolators under unit. "

When I read this, it sounds like somebody stuck cork in the guard above the fan and put cork under the feet of the condenser to eliminate the vibration noise. The fix addresses the symptom and not the problem. It is not a repair, just something done cheaply to make the condenser acceptable for the sale. Something is off balance and is causing excessive vibration. That is what needs to be replaced or repaired.

Replacing the fan blade is not that expensive, replacing the fan motor is a few hundred, replacing the compressor becomes costly. If you get a written estimate for repair by the closing, you may be able to negotiate with the seller to cover the cost.

If you are offered a home warranty ask for the money instead. Home warranties, especially for HVAC repairs, are very close to worthless in my opinion.

Can you elaborate? Thanks

BTW my post on elaborating was to tigerdunes re: the problemmatic aspect

Thanks Mike for your input. I think I may be too late now but I will see. Much appreciated

The fan on the compressor unit wobbles and vibrates excessively.

Has nothing to do with the compressor pump or AC system, we are talking about the fan blades, fan motor, and the mounting of the fan.

Either the fan motor is near end of life, the fan blades are not balanced or have breaks, or it is not mounted tightly on the unit. Either way it is not a deal breaker and easily fixable.

Placing the isolators plus tightening the fan assembly to the unit may have fixed the problem if it was loose before.

see my comment earlier...I believe I referred to the work as more of a bandaid than a professional HVAC repair...

IMO

Thank you everyone, it's great that there are people out there willing to give advice.