When the Hydraulic goes out on the steering, you are in for some big bucks.
I ran over horseshoes and shovel heads with my X mark, did not bend the deck, just kept going. The contractor seat on the X mark sure saves your back, neck, if you have arthritis issues, well worth every penny.
If you have 1.5 Acres, I would stick with a Club Cadet, 54" XT1 or XT2 with the 24HP engine.
For a home owner, a lower end X Mark is a fantastic investment, you will probably not live long enough to wear it out, don't forget the contractor seat!
