Which mower to use?

[ALL]

Hey guys, I am just starting a new lawncare company this spring. I got a loan and was planning on buying a 42" Walker. I was going with the smaller Walker so I could get it in backyards. I am planning on only cutting smaller residentials in the $35 to $70 range for now. I figure if I can get 20 to 30 yards a week I'll be happy (Average $800 a week). I know it will take me a while to build up that many lawns, but I am willing to work hard at it. I have been using Walker mowers with the company I work for and really like them. I have some friends in the service tell me that I need to go with something like a 5ft exmark with a 3ft walk behind. That way I have two mowers for roughly the same price as one Walker.Which sounds like a good idea, but I really like and am used to the Walker. Let me know what you think the best way to start is. Thanks for all your advice.

[say'n somthin]

I would start with a 36" Walk-behind for several reasons. First you are just starting out. Make as little investment as possible until you need to get more equipment. This way you are making money instead of paying back a loan. You also have to take into consideration the lawns with smaller gates - Usaully 3 ft. gates. You can sqeeze a 36" into one of these gates and your not push mowing the whole back yard. IMO - Once business has picked up and the 36" is paid for, continue to upgrade/buy more equipment. I would get at least a 52" second mower. I believe Walker has decks of all sizes and if you are use to that brand and like it continue to use them. Good Luck.

[beano]

I agree, it sounds like for the size yards you are looking at, a "36 walk behind would be the best bet. Easy to get in and out of yards and wont do any damage if the ground is soft. Start out small to increase profit!

[KCLawnMowing]

Dear ALL,
I think you should go with the one you are most satifide with... I have a walker and they do the job.

KCLawnMowing

[yardboy]

I have some friends in the service tell me that I need to go with something like a 5ft exmark with a 3ft walk behind. That way I have two mowers for roughly the same price as one Walker.Which sounds like a good idea, but I really like and am used to the Walker. Let me know what you think the best way to start is. Thanks for all your advice.

If you listen to your friends, you are a smart man. But like the others said get a 36 first and when you get to a point (maybe 15 profitable lawns) purchase the 60. Why a walker? Use a real ztr and you will see the productivity increase. B.T.W.-Please check into a hydro, it cost more but is well worth it.