not everyone needs a daily use item. that is ridiculous outside of professional use in this case. I got 15 years use out of a Toro WheelHorse Model 1438HXL before its maintenance repair bill exceeded the value of the lawn tractor so I gave it up.
i'd advise someone on the market look at the home websites of riding mowers. you will learn a name like MTD is made in the same building as much more well known, expensive advertised names. Sears has sold million of bicycles but they didn't build a single one.
you can get a ride for $1500-2500 if you don't need a honking big unit. something to keep in mind is if a model is popular where you live. if the local repair/maintance doesn't not sell Brand X you can't expect them to have many parts on hand for it.
John Deere are nice but pricey just for the popular name alone. MTD are a good every-day guy name made by a heavy-hitter company, it is their more affordable line. The most important thing is the motor. If you don't get enough HP you will be over-taxing the unit and it will lead to shorter life.
Cub Cadet are nice too but expensive. There are also little differences in how it's made that make it a better product.
I don't know who makes Sears but a lot of their stuff has been around many years. They can't afford to sell junk and piss off customers.
Protecting your mower from the elements in the off season is a key thing to long mower life. Get the accessories you'll want too, it's worth it. Remember you don't have to walk in with all cash, there is financing available. Check out a few dealers. Where I live one dealer tries to make as much money as he can on every sale. IMHO they suck, and I rarely ever go there. I have to drive twice as far to a shop where the guys give excellent prices, advice and service, and it's worth the drive every time.