I had originally started investigating the JD 2305, but they were scarce to find as the 1000 series was long overdue in the dealer showroom. While I waited and waited first the 2320 was offered with a rebate, and soon after the 2520 was advertised with its own rebate of $2,500.
It was a hard decision for me as it would be my first "real" tractor. I asked a host of question to the forum, and listened to each response.
In the end the rebate on the 2520 won the day, still a little apprehensive I bought the 2520, and have been extremely happy with my decision. No buyer’s remorse here. In retrospect I think the idea of deciding what you are going to need for a tractor then buying one size up worked for me. It does ring true at least it did for me that once you have a capable tractor you start talking more home projects that you hadn’t even considered before.
A real big thanks to the members of TractorByNet for getting me going in the right direction!