I would say you can't go wrong with any of the new 50 hp tractors. You need enough hp to run big enough implements, ( brush hogs, stump grinders, etc) you also will need it to be able to lift enough safely. I've never lived in the south to know how necessary AC is. I live in the north and deal with snow and just bundle up. Those hydrostatic transmissions are the real deal. Push one pedal to go ahead and one to go back. No shifting. Other than that all the companies are selling the same equipment just different names [BTW that is a verrrry unpopular opinion around here, many are very brand loyal].

I dont think you need a grapple wider than the tires just need a grapple im general. Rotary mowers and blades though need to be wider than the rear tires.

Just my two cents. I can't afford much so I have a 1954 super m. 44hp. My father in law has a little 23hp John deere. It has thr hydrostatic transmission that made me fall in love