I'm leaning towards the Honda or Toro. I would like the Honda motor, but Toro's personal pace would be nice. I've read 2 different places that a Home Depot mower wont be as good as an independent shop mower. Wouldn't they be identical if they're the same model number?
As far as the personal pace is concerned the Honda has the Self-propelled, variable speed Smart Drive which Easily adjust the mower's speed with there ergonomically-designed "paddle" style control handle for speeds from 0 to 4 mph. Both mowers are basically personal pace.
As far as buying the mower from Home depot goes, it doesn't really matter to much because any dealer that sells the Honda mowers will do the warranty work if needed. The mower will be the same mower from either place.
As far as buying from a dealer, unless you own a lawn business and you are planning on buying a lot of equipment such as Trimmers, edgers, ZTR mowers, oil filters, air filters and such by the case and doing you own maintenance you're not going to benefit all that much just buying the mower from a dealer.