Ideally you probably need a sub-compact tractor. There are some good offerings these days in the $13,000 range, but that sounds like they are out of reach. If you've got 5 acres, you'll find that loader invaluable. Given what you want to do, I'd look for used JD 400-series (425, 445, 455) or the later X465-X495/X575-X595 models. They are heavy duty (to pull things) and have up to a 62" mower deck to get the mowing done fast. The X5's offered 4wd which helps when pulling heavy aerators and such. Small loaders are also available for them. Given that you are new to machinery, I'd avoid looking at older utility tractors unless they are 1990-ish and up. Something like a mid-1990's JD 755 would work well for you. Hope this helps.

Pricepoints are certainly important BUT we are prepared to pay for quality(not hype).I am rethinking the KA range for sure...I like the KA fridge a lot.I also like the dishwasher with the top cutlery tray. Am really stumped by the combo oven/microwave unit..I need two ovens and would love to "eliminate" the microwave(which is not used a whole lot). Thanks for the feedback.

Hopefully my response comes across as helpful. Im not trying to be rude in any way. I do not think your statement of trying to obtain top of the line windows with mid grade pricing is realistic. Maybe listing out the requirements of your project will help you decide on a vendor and manufacture of window. Eliminate quotes out of your budget, should you have a budget. Eliminate any windows you dont like the looks of. Eliminate a company with a warranty you do not like. Granted it isnt my money but for me and my project i am going by aesthetics of of the window, followed by the quality of the installation, then price. I plan to live in my home indefinitely and want my windows and doors to last. If i have to look at them everyday i dont want to not like how they look.

lang84 - you will really need to narrow your preference down to wood (aluminum clad), vinyl, or fiberglass first. There are too many pros and cons to all three of these types of windows. The overall look and feel is your decision (i.e. fiberglass outside- wood inside, vinyl - beige on the outside - white on the inside....etc, etc.) Vinyl will give you the best energy performance, provided you are looking at the right brands. Sunrise, OKNA, Softlite, Polaris are a few of the better ones. Marvin makes a great fiberglass window with the Infinity, followed by the Integrity. Kolbe is getting good reviews with their wood windows.