You need to be careful at "Best of XXX" lists. I do the same and I've found that companies pay people to get good reviews. Just be careful. Let the buyer beware.
My Grasshopper 729 might be the best purchase I've ever made. Its got the deck on the front, push a button and sits right up for you to clean and change the blades. Fun and fast to drive. I'm 64 and started mowing when I was 5 (my Dad's old Wheelhorse tractor). I've had Wheelhorse...
I am the original owner. I have kept this in the barn. Use it to trim a hilly 4 acres in SW Michigan. It works fine. No issues with it. Its clean and ready to mow. I've seen these for sale for around $1500. Make offer.