Don't mess around...go with this...it's also got a
built-in cupholder in one of its 5 gallon gas tanks. It'll do ~15-16 mph so you should be able to do your yard in about 15 minutes. Oh, and the 60" deck kinda helps too!

Seriously, though, I don't know about HD's mowers, but I DO know that MTD = CRAP! And to echo what another said, don't waste your money on a low-budget trimmer, get an Echo to START with. You'll appreciate the ease and quality from the get go. Stihl makes a nice one, but don't buy it if it don't have a shoulder strap, them muthas be HEAVY! If you really want a top notch trimmer, get a Tanaka or Maryuma, Tanaka being harder to get parts for, but more reliable, hence actually needing to get parts LESS for it.
Nothing may run like a deer, but my Toro will beat the pants off of a moose!!

If you don't want to invest in a Toro like mine

(check to see if a landscaper is going out of business or if the highway dept in your area is selling off old machines) then save your money and invest in a GOOD all purpose tractor with several attachments. Shoveling sucks, but having your wife out there for a few snowstorms this winter will show her the
NECESSITY of purchasing one!
Other first time tips - invest in a wall-mount "instant" type water heater - lower bills, it'll pay for itself quickly
Get a front-loader washing machine - more expensive up front, less expensive wash after wash - I have three teenage kids, and the amount of wash we do...it paid for itself in savings in less than a year.
Don't invest in an alarm system, and DO invest in a whole house surge protector.
If you're in a cooler climate, consider a whole-house fan instead of A/C.
Insulate your attic if you have one.
Install a programmable thermostat - get a nice one.
If you can build your own cab, don't hire a contractor to remodel your kitchen, but DO plan on reading a lot on how to rehook up your plumbing (and the proper way to set your new cabinets in the kitchen).