Do you need a full sized one or will a mini do it? Do you need tracks, or can you use a wheeled one. (I was leaning toward tracks since we already have a tractor) I don't really have any answers, but I've been thinking about getting one myself. Mowing, I'd get a tractor with a bush hog. Maybe the same with the post holes. Cutting in power lines and water lines, digging ditches or putting in septic, I'd go with the excavator. The tractor will be much more useful than the excavator, I'd guess. I had a nice massey. Loved it. Get a box blade, front end loader, bush hog, rotary tiller and a wood chipper to use with the PTO and you are in high cotton. If you have heavy woods to clear, hire a dozer. Those are just my opinions. There are a lot of people on here smarter than me about this stuff.