Hi Geish!
Tracking down what tractor to buy is a challenging and fun process.
It sounds like you are off to a good start, figuring out what does what... You already made the statement that you would not try and cover your biggest possible jobs (liker pond building) but go for what you need most times…
I think it is important to get a handle on what you need in general terms. Would a 5’ cutter do the job, or do I need an 8 foot one...? Bigger isn’t always better, and costs can climb fast! But having some idea as to what can work can be a real plus..
Because, your next step is to find a good dealer. You want one that can listen to your needs and have some product choices to match your needs. No sense pounding a round peg in a square hole! If you found that a small tractor like a SubCut fits your needs, you probably will find large suburban Lawn and Garden Dealerships might be more helpful than rural Big Ag dealers.
My last tractor was an orphan, there were no dealers around that carried them, anymore. While I really liked it, I knew that I wanted to be able to get support on whatever I bought. So I really watched out for under capitalized dealers. You know - the ones that look like bait stores and recently added a tractor line. Or, something like that. It is no secret that under capitalization is by far the biggest reason for business failure. Even if there is another dealer that can service you tractor, it is always best to have a selling dealer to go back to. Don’t assume that a little ‘low overhead’ dealer is going to have better prices than a well established one with a complete staff and full inventories. Many times, just the opposite is true!
While there are lots of great machines, dealer quality can vary wildly. In my area, one might really shine, in yours, it could be just the opposite. If you find the right dealer and go in with some idea as to why you are there, you have a good chance of a good experience.
Some well meaning folks will tell you that if you get just what they got, you will be just as happy as they are! Well, that MIGHT be. But it is your hard earned money you are spending, unless they are writing the check, consider it just a friendly ‘I like mine..’ Do the research and get what’s right for YOU!!!
One VERY well meaning guy whose advice you really want is Muhammad, the "man behind the curtain' here at TBN. He wrote a book for folks just like you. It costs something, but worth every penny. If you get it, you won't be dissapointed!
If you go out and look at things, and drive them around, come back and post your findings… There is usually someone with a good idea as to what you are considering. But most of all, have fun!
