I have a 99 GHS w/ about 3000 hours. I also have a 54 side discharge deck for it, that I no longer use. I only use this machine for bagging grass and leaf clean-up, the Exmarks cut everything else. It is a well designed machine that really shines in small lawns. (like you plan to target) It is also very productive for condo - townhouse type properties. The grass discharge is excellent, it doesn't blow grass 30 feet like an exmark (a plus in small yards). It has a lot of lube points that are not overly accessable. But greased properly will give very reliable operation. It is not as easy to jump on and learn as a mid mount, but it is much more precise of control once you master it. I would recommend it for a start up machine. They are expensive but the ability for leaf clean up would be a major cost benefit, as well as mentioned above, dethatching. I would suggest getting a second deck for side discharge. You'll want a 54 side dischrge not a 56, the 54 has a great cut and really does good in wet grass, not true w/ 56 in Midwest bluegrass. You can probably get a good used 54 flip up deck from a dealer. This machine should help you earn a quality reputation. Be careful going after H/O associations, it is not easy pleasing 30 plus home owners. I wouldn't be too concerned going after commercial at first. You have an advantage at the residential level that you will be on the job if the customer needs additional services, you can sell that on the same visit. Commercial accounts don't generally care who is on the job. Any other questions just ask, someone will be along to answer.
