Next time they come out have them do a leak repair before they add freon.It's an EPA violation to continue adding freon when you know there is a leak.Finally, the compressor may overheat on hot days due to clogged condense coils.

The list you generated are definitely important steps, but if the heart of your question is what are the "core" steps then I would say condense your list to something along these lines:1.

A live event simply condenses both to motivate you to act.

I have used it before, mike, and in a perfect world a cheap roll on product would do the trick, but all my moisture puzzles in the real world are so much more complicated. could be so many things, like where is it coming from... mere warm moist air condensing on cold places, a leak, slope or gutter problem outside, or an more costly drainage issue that means excavation around the house (for example., have you seen Holmes on Homes when they tackle tricky basement moisture the "right way" ).... so I would study it more (alot) and even think about experienced or expert opinions to find a source and craft the best solution.... wish I could say it is a 30 dollar and done deal....

Depends a little bit on the building layout and where the furnaces are located but we’ve been paying around $1800-$2000 per condenser for most properties.

And even when sellers are honest, the AC condensers do break down after the sales sometimes. 

Newly installed HVAC system without permits - dual zone heating/cooling was installed and the two condensers at the exterior were installed too close together.

if your in an area that your condenser will get stolen.. then that is a very risky place to flip.you want to be flipping in neighborhoods were theft is rare and homeowners want to be..

Look to history to see where working-class populations condensed into cities with strong working class industry during industrialization (late 1800s to early 1900s).

@Adam Oldham I'm a local east side investor and recently hired Masters Heating and AC.They did a great job and replaced an outside condenser fan for me.