when ever your talking older used machines, the BEST one will be the one in the best shape/condition and was cared for, brand really doesn't mater at this point IMO!
as there really are no models to really stay away from IMO<
how well they were treated and what they were used for will matter more , than saying "X" model to buy or stay away from !
and I gather your talking 70+ HP models, and finding one near you in GOOD condition and in that price range will be the game to play, I don't think its going to be very easy to get into one in your price range , in great shape, unless you get really lucky!
machines are bring high price tags right now!
And If I was you, and didn;t have experience in skid steers or machinery in general!,
I would make sure to bring someone that has experience with them to do a Good once over on the machines your considering, to help up the odds of you getting something decent!
and I would also start learning to know what to look for on used machines in general, so once you get it, you will know what to do and look out for
as they say knowledge is power!!
and also, the newer the machine, odds increase IMO< that they will be easier to flip a cab to do work when needed, some of the older machines were not so user friendly to do so
still GOOD machines, just more steps to get cabs tilted for repairs!
and lastly
keep in mind all machines break down, so, having a dealer for "X" brand near you will come into importance some day down the road,
so maybe stick to makes that you have dealers closer to you!
food for thought