Terry,
I'm like you - new to CT's. Just got a BX2200 last week.
I also have 3 acres but it's all flat and all yard (only a small garden) - thus the decision to go with the BX.
I bought the JD LX277 3 mowing seasons ago. It's been a fantastic workhorse - I've worked the heck out of it with absolutely zero problems (other than one broken deck belt).
I routinely pulled my 5X10 trailer loaded down with tree limb debris.
I've even used it to haul wood back to the shop - as much as 1000 lbs of stuff on a 800 lb trailer. Over Christmas, I pulled 4 adults and 6 kids on the trailer up and down the neighborhood caroling. I'm positive JD would not recommend that kind of weight, but, heck, it's a JD - need I say more?
Now that I have the BX, I've thought about selling the JD, buying a cheap Craftsman or similar for trim mowing and spending the difference on an extra attachment or two for the 'bota. But, I'v become attached to my JD and don't think I can stand to get rid of it. With only light duty work from now on, it will last practically forever. I have come to appreciate the quality feel and toughness. I never have to baby it and worry that it will fall apart. I just keep the oil changed, hose it off occasionally, and work it for all its superb Kawasaki 17hp engine is worth.
Ain't it great?!
-R