Even though used lawn tractors are a lot cheaper than new models, you do have to make sure you have the right tractor for your needs. Not all tractors have the same features or perform in the same way. You do have to look at the various brand names and do your research to look at the reliability that each one is known for. If you find one particular brand name that seems to have a lot of problems, you should avoid buying one of these used models, no matter what the retailer says.
You can also look at remanufactured models when you are looking to save money. Remanufactured means that owners turn them in for a newer model. The manufacturer strips down the machine and repairs anything that needs repairing. Technically the machine is used, but if any new parts are needed, they will be installed. You won't get the same warranty as if you buy new, but there will be a limited warranty available.
Ariens Riding Mower
Look at the size of your lawn. If it is only a small lawn, think about whether you really need a tractor, when a gas or electric lawn mower will do the job just as well. You also need a large place to store a tractor so if you don't have a large garage or shed, where are you going to put it, especially in winter?
If you do buy a tractor, there are many different types of attachments you can buy. For example, there are mulchers and baggers that you can attach to make your work much easier. You can also buy a snow plowing blade so that your tractor becomes a snowplow in the winter.