The dealers posting here would likely have better answers, but it does seem there is not much dickering room on the residential machines [including the ZF]. It seems that the web-site, ads, and full dealer as well as "volume" dealer prices are fairly in sync. One IH dealer up here was pretty rigid, the other was ready to knock about 4% [essentially the tax] off of a 4K ZForce50.
That said, I know at least one member found about 10% off of a ZF44. Also, if you could inspect it at pick it up, there is a ZF44 selling on EBay...I think the retail was mislisted. After this thread, I'm even less keen on the RZT42, but if you still like it, there's an 04 I'm guessing a few hours away from you listed for 2K/SubmitOffer on Ebay too.
I think you are wise to focus your shopping at dealers; too many of the "volume" guys just aren't informed enough [or too over-zealous] to make reasonable recomendations (granted, I'm sure there are a few bad dealers, and a few good "lawn dept." salesmen). Don't think dealers make too much per unit, but I'm guessing they save enough paperwork that if it comes in for warranty work they'll be much happier to see your face if you bought from them. Not sure, but I'm also guessing there's probably "brownie points" or at least braggin' rights if they move enough units [wonder if they'd give you a prize for buying the last one of the truck load?! /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif].