While all of the compact tractors in the 16 to 30 HP range would work for your needs, there are a few things to keep in mind. 1) Kubota is dominating this maket nitch for a reason.2) While the old addage "you get what you pay for" is usually true even with tractors, You will pay a premium for certain paint colors that is not justified by improved performance.3) If you are considering a Kubota BX series tractor remember it is designed to fill the "YUPPY" market (you should start wondering about this on any machine that comes standard with cup holders). While priced less than tractors of simular horse power, even other Kubotas, there are resons for this.a) The B series tractors in the Kubota line are designed for heavier duty service that the BX models. In normal homeowner use this differance may never surface. In rental, commercial, and farm use it will.b) Get under the BX and B series, and compare the frames. Look at the bucket curl cylinders, same size but the B has 2 of them. Compare the tire and wheel size the B series has more options, the BX has tires designed to make it look smaller and less intimidating.c) While the horse power is the same on many of the BX/B series machines, this is as much a manufacturing cost saving as anything else. The machines do not apply this power to the job at hand in the same way.d) Find a dealer that serves the rental/commercial market, and ask him what the experiance has been with the BX vs the B. If he is honest he will tell you that the BX does not perform well in those markets. I'm not talking sales here I'm talking working performace and repairs.There are lots of other things to check out but you get the idea. For your application you should get a serious compact tractor. You may wring your hands at the cost differance up front, but over time you will never regret the decision to get the larger machine.Based on information in your post, you are probably looking for a Kubota B2410 or B2710. If you go for the 2410 look into the tight turning option. Some of the stuff you describe would be eisier to do with improved turning radius. Also on the 2410 you can get optional turf/bar tread tires. These are not as agressive as either AG or Construction treads and as such won't tear up your grass as much, but still provide good traction when you need it.Good luck.