2 1/2 to 3 acres to finish, I'd be looking at a 60" deck, 54 " minumum, check out a new Cub Cadet , I have had great luck with little cubs , most of my family uses little cubs for mowing. look at a new cub cadet 2000 series, 16 to 20 hp , direct drive hydros, cast iron front axle, it will care for that drive, 48" blade, and pull a soft drag in that arena. close to 5k, but head and heels above Craftman, Craftmans' best is 4k plus and it's a heavy duty lawn tractor. start looking at light duty tractors, Ingersols are very strong little tractors, but cubs are better mowers that can do more than a bit of tractoring. most brands now are offering 12,24,or 36 months same as cash, there are deals to be had, in today's climate, don't be bashful. happly hunting.