When I was younger I worked for International Harvester makers of the cub cadet. I believe john deere is rated higher as a better mower but is quite a bit more expensive. I, myself would recommend the cub cadet if you are mowing very much. I bought a used cadet for about $600 and used it all year long, in the winter with chains on to push snow. I mowed approximately 1 1/2 acres. My main upkeep was belts and blade sharpening. I did all my own maintenance though. I can tell you it is by far the easiest to work on, which would save you money on labor if you needed major work done. A 10 horse is plenty for about anything. I wouldn’t pay the prices they want for new though so I would recommend finding someone to help you pick out a used one. Things to check: ease of starting, belts (torn or frayed), blade bearings wiggle the blade up & down to see if bearings are out), blades ( it will tell you if they have been mowing rocks and what their upkeep is like),battery (is it fairly new), steering ( does it have a lot of play in it (play until it actually starts turning), and brakes (does it stop you well, especially if on a hill).
Good Luck!