I added the mulch kit later. It depends on how long the grass is. My biggest complaint about the mulch kit is that it tends to blow out the sides which leeads to needing to clean off the driveway.
Because I didn't need two tractors and a Ventrac is out of my budget. I bought a diesel Kubota GR2020. I have had thee years now and am happy with it.
https://www.kubotausa.com/products/mowers/lawn-garden-tractors/gr2020g