We just added an addition to a house we recently purchased and need to address the outside on a phased and limited budget. We enjoy being outside so we've decided to put a covered deck on the side of the house. The house gets a lot of sun so that is why we decided on a covered deck. We are struggling with the following:
Creating a more leveled yard where the kids can play
Doing a bi-level deck with an uncovered portion that wraps around the back of the house or stepping down to a patio. I'm struggling a bit with this because the stairs
Some level of privacy. Fencing in the yard. I'm not crazy about the viny fences that I see everywhere but also recognize cost and maintenance are important factors
Landscaping - Types of trees and bushes for philadelphia area

Front Portico /patio.

I know it's a lot but any thoughts/suggestions/visions would be great.