They're expensive but I recommend a small zero turn mower.
Mike

After owning a couple of larger MTD made lawn tractors, I bought a John Deere LT150 with 38 inch deck in 2005 and have really been happy with it. It steers easy and turns as sharp as I need it to. I think the current version is the JD X300 at about $2800-$3000.

For under $2k, Sears offerings with their so-called "turn-tight" feature are probably as good as any. The link below shows a nice one with a bagger system. As mentioned above, the zero-turn style mower is best for tight places and speed, but do cost significantly more.

Here is a link that might be useful: Sears turn tight tractor with bagger

Agree with Larso, at that price point you're looking at one of the "big box" mowers or Sears. There is concern as to how long Sears servicewill continue to be around, however the big box stores don't service. Well, Lowe's has an interesting 5 year agreement you might want to look at.

FWIW, for a quarter acre, I'd go with a good self propelled walk behind, they're even available with battery start if that's a concern. No matter how slow and careful you mow with a LT, you'll end up barking or rubbing your trees and shrubs. alternately, you might keep a walk behind around just for trimming and with that small a yard.... Also with an LT there's more maintenance, hauling it off to be serviced, buying gas (a.k.a. mystery fuel) in small quantities so it's not sitting around planning on gumming up the fuel circuit., etc.

Good luck,

Ev

I have a self propelled mower- I want a rider! I'm looking at a rear engine Snapper. What do you guys think about that choice. Thanks for all the help, so far. I can't go over 2000 on the mower. Paul

When i narrowed down my choices it came down to service if needed. I had two dealers, one very close by. If needed he will pick up and tend to the issues.
If you purchase from a big box store, stop by a local small family run service place. Ask advice from them. They may even have a re-built used one as good as new. If you want new, see if they are familiar, what their pick-up charge is, etc. (i was more obsessed with service than anything). Always good to have a service plan in place for piece of mind.
Call Snapper trouble-shooting hot-line, (if they have such a thing), or the parts dept. See if they answer, : )...make up a simple question about deck height after reading the manual on-line. Or something you feel is unclear.
Treat it kindly and the little Snapper might be just the thing for you.

Here is a link that might be useful: older but similar post

Lowes has a 30" Troybuilt compact with super tight turning radius for about $1K. I have been looking at it and it may replace my current 15 year old Murray which is a little too big for certain areas in my yard.

http://www.lowes.com/pd_422486-270-13BC26JD011_0__?productId=4363449&Ntt=troybuilt+30%27%27+mower&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dtroybuilt%2B30%2527%2527%2Bmower&facetInfo=

Lowes has a 30" Troybuilt compact with super tight turning radius for about $1K. I have been looking at it and it may replace my current 15 year old Murray which is a little too big for certain areas in my yard.

http://www.lowes.com/pd_422486-270-13BC26JD011_0__?productId=4363449&Ntt=troybuilt+30%27%27+mower&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dtroybuilt%2B30%2527%2527%2Bmower&facetInfo=