Volvo: 92 Volvo 240 GL, volvo 240 gl, salvage yard

Question
Bought 92 240 GL used w/broken odometer at 198K. Exterior looks great / interior fair.  Took car in to get fixed because it starts rough and hesitates, falters until you get it up to ~50 then runs fine.  Had three mechanics work on it, fixed AC, new timing belt, tune and plugs, had two ECU ?? sensors put in, one said he checked harness and it was fine (not sure how bc he didn't trace any wiring,) am now out about 2K (I must be crazy) but he said it needs two valves replaced.  Compression is 25 in all valves, so how does he know it needs valves.  He said that job would be $900, but I found a used motor and trans with guarantee at salvage yard for $1000.  Should I go that route and/or do you have any ideas?  Funny thing is the "valve job" mechanic asked me if I wanted to sell this car to his assistant pastor, hmmmm must be a good car or he hates his pastor.  Your thoughts for this school teacher out of a job and now $ will be eagerly awaited.  I had an 84 volvo (she is still being driven around) also have an 89 volvo with lots of issues but she still rattles down the road and this was to be my dream car I sure hope you can help me. God Bless

Answer
Marty,
If all the cylinders were showing 25 psi and he said it needs two valves, pull the car out of there and find a real Volvo tech that can check the car out. I do not have any idea of what the engine needs, but unless he can provide a better explaination of the repairs that are needed I would get a second opinion. The price for the engine and trans sound reasonable. If the second opinion shows a similar problem and price, the engine swap maybe a good idea.