Billy Lowe of Snapper, a maker of both residential and commercial lawn mowing products for more than half century, suggests you ask a few questions and take a look at your options.

1. How big is my yard?
Most people who do their own yard care don't want to spend more than an hour to an hour and a half each time they cut the lawn, Lowe says. Small lot? Then a walk behind, mulching mower could be your best option. Large lot, with plenty of trees? You can cut your mowing time with a rear engine rider or a zero-turn radius mower. Do you have lots of yard projects? A yard tractor with some optional accessories is just what you need, he advises. Some mowers today—whether walk behind or riding—are convertible, meaning they can switch from mulching, to bagging to side discharge with a few adjustments. This feature gives consumers three mowers in one and extends the value of the purchase.

2. Who mows the grass?
If the only exercise you get is mowing the lawn each week or you have a teenager who needs a workout, then either a push or self-propelled walk behind is a good choice. While tractors and rear engine riders cut down on the exercise, it is important that they be used only by those old enough to operate and control the equipment safely.

3. What should I look for?
A good mower is an investment that will last for many mowing seasons. Look for an engine with between a 4.5 and 6 horsepower on a walk behind mower while riding mowers can vary between eight and 18 horsepower. Try out the controls and make sure they are easy to operate. Drive that riding mower. Make sure everyone who will use it can comfortably reach the foot pedals and operate all systems. Solid steel decks, convertibility, available options, accessories and ease of maintenance should be considered when making a mower purchase, Lowe says.

4. Where should I buy my mower?
You can buy a mower just about anyplace today from the Internet to the local hardware store to the big-box home center at the mall. And while price is important, it's not the only thing to look for when buying a mower. Where you buy is as important as what you buy. You need to look for value and service after the sale. Independent power equipment dealers are experts in small engines and can help you decide just what you need. They have most models fully assembled and aren't afraid to let you try them out. You won't carry a box home in the back of the trunk—independent dealers will assemble and deliver your new purchase to your door and even show you how to get it started and keep it running. Like your car, lawnmowers work hard and need some TLC. If you buy from an independent dealer, he will be there for service, warranty work, parts and accessories long after the sale.

Think through your purchase and you'll have season after season of lawn care pleasure, reminds Lowe.