I'm new to posting and I've read all kinds of postover the past year but I really need help finding a mower. I currently have a 22 inch self-propelled husquavana and a back-up 22 inch craftsman. I have 17 accounts but want to be up to 30 by mid June. Right now the longest it takes to mow a lawn is an hour, and that is a family member the rest take about a half hour at most. I'm looking to buy a mower either under 2000$ or with financing but am not sure whether to get a ride-on or walk behind, zero turns are definitly outside my desired price range, any advice would be awesome, I was thinking a used walk-behind 36-42inch is my best bet financially, any suggestions of what to get or better yet what not to get???

Hello, I have been using walk behinds for 18 years. I currently use a Toro 36" Hydro. For what you have to spend I would suggest a 36" Belt drive. You can get a brand new one for around $2000. I have been VERY HAPPY with Toros. I did try a Exmark a few years ago. It also did a great job but didn't hold up as good as the Toros. Check with your local mower shops and see what they can do for you? You might get lucky and find a demo still under warranty. Check craigslist.com in your area. But be careful buying used. I would spend the extra money and get a new one. Shop around and try different brands. See who gives you the best deal. I shopped 2 local Toro dealers and told them what is the best you can do bottom line. I ended up getting mine for $250 over cost. Don't be afraid to walk out and check up the street. It worked for me. Stefan

I was looking at a new exmark belt drive today and it was 2900 for a 36inch. They sell toro ride ons but they didnt have any ZTRs or WB in the showroom. I'm gonna go in tomorrow and see what they have for toro WB might be the cheapest way to get a hydro. I'll definitly look around for a demo though thats a good idea.

I was looking online and found a 36" walkbehind for 2050 delivered to you door. The name brand is RedHawk. I do not know there reputation. There may be someone who might. Here is the web site to check it out.

http://www.rcpw.com/equipment/redhawk/walkbehind/redhawk_walk1.htm

Will

Your not going to be able to get a Hydro for what you have to spend. Mine cost $5200 after bickering with mower shops. That was just over cost. I know most mower shops have financing or leasing with a dollar buy out at the lease end. Keep shopping around to get your best deal and the right mower for you. Stefan