Your instinct to go with more capacity than you think you need is correct. A minimum of the X5XX JD line or equivalent. Have you looked at Kubota? Look for "beef" and reliability in your all purpose tractor.
In my opinion, transmissions are a priority when doing more than flat ground mowing. Followed by the frame strength (read that as steel thickness) and then engine choice. I'm biased toward the Kawasaki twins, I have two in full time service now and impressed by their power and smooth operation. One on a CC ZT the other, the JD X500. Kohler, once a bullet proof line of engines, has seemed to struggle on some of their later engine lines, but I don't know if that has been solved in newer models. Briggs too suffered with falling reputation. Not sure about recent models. Other MTF members might have different engine recommendations.
You will find other things to do on your property as you get into working in the woods and garden. Don't short change yourself with a weak machine.
Remember this little truism:
"Better to have more tractor than you need, than to need more tractor than you have"
Congrats on your new home, and good luck on your search. It is an exciting time.
In my opinion, transmissions are a priority when doing more than flat ground mowing. Followed by the frame strength (read that as steel thickness) and then engine choice. I'm biased toward the Kawasaki twins, I have two in full time service now and impressed by their power and smooth operation. One on a CC ZT the other, the JD X500. Kohler, once a bullet proof line of engines, has seemed to struggle on some of their later engine lines, but I don't know if that has been solved in newer models. Briggs too suffered with falling reputation. Not sure about recent models. Other MTF members might have different engine recommendations.
You will find other things to do on your property as you get into working in the woods and garden. Don't short change yourself with a weak machine.
Remember this little truism:
"Better to have more tractor than you need, than to need more tractor than you have"
Congrats on your new home, and good luck on your search. It is an exciting time.