Considering a tractor upgrade
Went through the same delima and ended up with a Kubota 1870. It is diesel, 4x4, quick detach bucket and shaft driven mower. It is just as fast as a zero turn and has a turn radius that is certainly not limiting. I think the 23 hp tractor is the same size. The tires do not mess up the grass unless it's in 4x4 and turn sharp.