We're in Florida, so A/C is particularly necessary. And yes, it was expensive, but the capacitor blew in the compressor outside and it took the fan with it. Both had to be replaced.
Arg!~ I could have handled that job, though not a qualified HVAC guy, I've been doing my own repairs for around a decade. Those parts are easy to get and install. They made well over $500 profit on you. Sorry man.