Just to throw in another perspective, my wife and I bought a JD 1025R sub compact tractor last summer. We got the belly mower and front loader attachments (to start). Yes, it's only 24 HP and a hydrostat. But it's been perfect for us. Big enough, but not too big. Has a 3 point hitch and PTO. I also add a 'heavy hitch' (which makes it easy to add counter weights for loader use) and also has 2 in receiver for using trailers and a hitch haul. It's been extremely useful to us, and works well for our small acreage (12 acres). No, it wasn't cheap but we did feel like we received a quality tractor for our money. As with all things on the forum, it does 'depend'. On your needs vs your budget. But a tractor is definitely a game changing tool for a pond and/or acreage owner. I highly recommend one.
"Politics": derived from 'poly' meaning many, and 'tics' meaning 'blood sucking parasites'.
