Welcome to the world of GE, where the parts costs are rediculously huge.

The suggested repairs are probably a good bet, but the cost means that you should either replace the machine with a much more reliable one (basic top loader if you can use a top loader will do fine).

If you want to continue to use the machine you might take off the console assembly and attempt to clean the start button contacts. As for the fabric softener, well, you can either manually add it or leave it out. Personally I see no real reason for fabric softener, it just clogs up the works with relatively little value added, but if you feel different try to add it by stopping the machine in the rinse cycle and putting it in.