Gas or Diesel?
Do you need a gasoline or diesel powered tractor? For most residential, mowing applications gasoline powered tractors are the way to go. If you have more than five acres and plan on doing some plowing, hauling, heavier mowing and adding any attachments then diesel is probably the tractor of choice.
Lawn Tractors
Lets look first at your average lawn mower. Your average "lawn tractor" can range anywhere from $1500 - $4500 and range from 15HP- 25HP with gasoline engines. Most all lawn tractors are belt driven with limited parts availability and are designed to last a short period of time.
Garden Tractors & Compact Tractors
Next lets look at property owners that have 3 - 15 acres and the need for plowing, gardening, mowing, cutting and loading. You can consider a "garden tractor" or a "compact tractor". A garden tractor is a tractor that is really a lawn tractor with a heavier built to it and with the capability of some attachments like a tiller, a blade, snowblower and larger mower decks (usually 54in - 60in decks).
My personal recommendation for this scenario would be a "compact tractor". A compact tractor is basically a miniature tractor with full size tractor capabilities such as mowing, cutting, loading, digging, tilling, plowing and hauling. They have diesel engines ranging in size from 15HP - 30HP. The reliability of these tractors makes for a great used tractor. A new compact tractor with a mower can range from $10000 - $20000, depending on the size and model. Great used compact tractors can be found for as low as $5000.
Farm Tractors
If farming is in your future and you have many acres to tend to, you are best advised to consult with a dealer or fellow farmer before making a purchase.
Gray Market Tractors
Because good used tractors are so reliable, there is a high demand and a relatively low supply of them and good used tractors sell very quickly. A tempting way of saving money is buying an "off-brand" tractor or a gray market tractor. Many of them do not have a mid PTO which is needed if you want a belly mower. When your ready to make the purchase be sure to check here with Tractor Shopper for deals on your next new or used tractor!
