Supton, having done a bit of repair and tinkering work to various make and model snowblowers over the years, I wouldn't necessarily avoid MTD products. I find them easy to work on and parts are cheap and easy to get. If the price is right and it's something you can handle, go for it.
Having offered that opinion, I do have another.. One snowblower/thrower to AVOID is any MTD or otherwise with a twin, counter-rotating shaft engine. Many MTDs have this, as do some old iron beasts. Replacement engines are basically non-existent and retrofitting them with a single shaft engine requires some serious mods. If buying used, I would suggest you bring some sockets/wrenches to quickly pop the belt guard off to verify if single or 2-shaft. My ~1999 model year Yardman 24" snowblower with a 7hp OHC Tecumseh engine has the twin shaft. It's been a great machine for me, but once the engine goes, so does the whole thing.
I dunno if you've read any threads in regards to the Ariens Sno-Tek line, but if you're buying new on a budget, they are the best bang for your buck. Less money than a new comparable MTD, but a better design, heavier components and they'll out-throw a comparable MTD machine like night/day. I've got a new Arines Snow-Tek 28". Love it.
