for a lawn tractor I would go with mtd murrey or dynamark,anything with a belt drive. the most trouble you have is keeping the tires inflated or breaking a belt. 300 to 600 dollars should get you one. I have always liked a briggs motor and have had good luck with them. The old toros last forever. I am familiar with the wheelhorse brand and they are built like a scale model farmall or ford tractor. I have seen them with blades and wheel weights hauling a 3rd cord of wood. You do great work on the paintings and might consider a show,if you get enough of them done. The best to you deezy, 40 or 45 a lawn isnt unreasonable at all considering wear and tear on a mower and maintence. My problem also I work too cheap .