If you're wanting quick feedback I don't think it will happen. I'm also a new member trying to decide on a new ZTR also wanting feedback. I've quit waiting and did searchs to determine what people think.
Personally I wouldn't spend the extra, it all depends on how quick your return on investment will be. I'm small time, so 6K will be about what I made last year, and was the price that I've been looking at. I also will be paying cash.
I'm going to start looking at used equipment but I want a 50" deck, and that might be hard to find.
One thing though, most guys that do it for a living will tell you to buy the best equipment with the most HP.