Be careful about buying by brand name only. More companies who in the
past made only top quality equipment are making "homeowner quality"
equipment and selling them at stores like Home Depot and Lowes. In
essesence it is MTD level with a higher price because of the name. I
know some of the John Deere's at Home Depot are this way, but havent
heard about the Cub Cadet. Do more research before you blindly plunk
down money at Lowes thinking you are getting a really good deal.

Also their service is just subbed out to low bid repair shops.
Service will usually be better from a real dealer, and if you shop
around, very often the price also, especially if you consider the
expertise that you get when buying it.

Good luck,
Bryan