The Max 25 has been exceptional for my needs on 2 acres along with loads of volunteer work for the HOA on another 8 acres or so. I use it for dirt work, brush hogging and moving heavy things with FEL. Makes a wheelbarrow and shovel far less important! We have lots of trees to work around here and the 4' box blade and 4' cutter both work well on this machine. I wanted a real, sturdy tractor and shopped the BX and small JDs as well. The green and orange machines are well crafted - can't say anything bad about them at all. The Max just seemed more substantial to me, and I'm pleased to have gone with this unit after putting it through the abuse I have.
With 12 acres I'd be hesitant to go with anything smaller than something with the weight and power of a Max. You probably should even think about a slight upsize if you have the room to store and can move around. Perhaps the brands get back inline in the upper size ranges, but if you do choose a sub compact I think you'd be happy with a Max. The JD and Kubota weigh a little less and may be better for a lawn mowing application, but for low RPM power and a stout, yet small package, the Max works very well. Search my other posts for a few quick pics with box blade attached.
If the dealers will let you test them out on the lot you should go for it. Pick things up, turn in circles, run them up to their proper operating RPM and see what makes you happy. I personally like Red, but Orange, Green, Blue, etc... may feel right when you put the foot down and arm up!
Good luck with the decision. You'll enjoy your tractor regardless of which one you choose!
