Bolens 38" Cutting Deck Riding Lawn Mower by MTD
I have a large but difficult yard due to trees and some hills yet this mower does a fine job. I purchased at Lowes for $899 and added the twin bagger attachment and anti-scalp wheel kit that I ordered online (total investment approx. $1200). The bagger is very easy to attach taking all of 5-8 minutes and best of all, the mounting brackets stay put on the rear out of the way until needed; simply hang the bags.
Engine is 15.5 Briggs single, overhead valve and pulls straight up a steep hill easy. Cutting belt is easy to replace on this one.
I have read some bad reviews on MTD products but have had zero issues with this one, my neighbor has had one for 12 years. If you use it to cut grass and not brush and don't trash it on rough ground it should be a decent, cost effective investment.