Checked out Ferris at GIE. Very nice looking machine, and if you're in rough territory the suspension is sweet. With price range you are in there, you have lots to choose from. I'd recommend looking at Hustler and Scag. My father in law has a diesel Kubota zt and likes it, but I will never buy another Kubota. I have a trachoe that has been nothing but a maintenance expense, and 2 customers bought the 4wd mowers and have had nothing but issues. Just my personal experience.