HVAC in San Diego (how much, house, buying)

[mar2p]

Hi everyone!
I am here to get general ideas of the costs associated with HVAC repairs/installation in San Diego by local contractors.

I am currently in escrow, and the house I am buying DOES have a forced air heating system with the unit in the attic. The house has been vacant for a while, and the unit does not have pilot on, and the thermostat is missing. Over the last 7 days, I tried to have HVAC companies come out to check, but for some reason, every single one I had appointment with cancelled on me at the very last minute (emergency calls, wife being in labor, technician's injury and medical leave, etc.). That's the only thing I wanted to check before close of escrow because I am buying this house as-is. So far, I had an engineer, plumber and electrician come out and got reports/bids, and all has been within my budget. Because the contingency period is expiring, I must move ahead without having it checked out.

Hence, I would appreciate if you could share your stories, and the $$ you spent on your heating system. No plan to install AC at the moment, but any information will be greatly appreciated. How much did you spend on what (new duct work, new unit, thermostat replacement, etc... anything!) when you had to fix/upgrade your HVAC system? How big is/was the house? What brand of unit do you recommend? Any information will be GREATLY appreciated! I want to know the higher end of the expenses so I would be prepared.

Thanks~