We are looking at tractors. The 1026 seems too expensive for what you get. You can get a better deal going with a straight compact unit like the 3000 series.
2012 John Deere 825i with power steering, power dump, poly roof, no-scratch windshield, deluxe light kit, Maxiis Bighorn, Kolpin HID headlight kit and two JD work light kits.
I've got a 2305 and wish had gone a level higher to get better valves for the front end loader. The small size is great on small city lots but moving only one cylinder at a time is really annoying if you are accustomed to being able to blend controls. Still a lot better than a shovel though.
I had a 2305, certainly a good little machine with a lot of attitude and it was great with a mower deck as well. I traded it on a 2320 which I really like especially getting away from the hydro cooling fan. The 2520 is a better machine for the loader I hear. I have a Kubota L3540 for the bigger stuff I have to do and the cab keeps my butt warm in the winter.