I can't see paying over 2k for one. Does anyone make a smaller model? Maybe a 7 or 8 hp?

 

Northern Tool & Equipment (NorthernTool.com) sell 2 Swisher models. A 42" cut 8 HP for $750, and a 60" cut 12 HP for $1349. I've used the 12 horse model for 4 years now, and I'm still very happy with it. Just change the oil once in awhile and go. The only problem I see for you would be the shipping costs, as Northern is in Minnesota. You might find another Swisher dealer closer to home on the Web.