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This is a question that has no real answer.
I've bought new, used, kept it for years, done major repairs, scrapped things when they were repairable, probably every option.
I'd say always buy new, but keep an eye for the odd ebay bargain. If you can afford two of everything you'll never be pressured to repair/replace, and that can save you ££s, not least because you are never without a machine due to a small breakdown. Panic repairs or replacement are a nightmare.
Build the best possible relationship with a local repairer who understands trade needs. One day without a mower is a lot of money, 20 minutes extra travel to the bloke who carries spares and repairs while you wait is nothing. Buy what he prefers to work on.
I'll repeat my old suppliers advice. If you want maximum reliability and residuals, buy everything new in March. Sell it at the end of the season, as 9-month-old Stihl or Honda will fetch at least half their new cost, and the Stihl gear probably nearer 75%. You have all new gear every year, less down-time, and your supplier will bend over backwards to repair fast and discount as you're buying new every year. It doesn't work for me, as I know I'm careful with my equipment, whereas staff might not be. It does make a lot of sense though.