The main problem down this way is more a grass problem than weeds. You just might want to do all of the above except the raking. If you aren't doing anything this winter, why not till, mulch and smoother? If you are going to plant this winter, try a very heavy mulch and just open a small area for each plant or seed and just watch for weeds. They should be easier to pull if they have to grow up through a lot of mulch or leaf and grass clippings. As long as the mulch isn't IN the ground there will be no nitrogen being removed from the soil.

When I did as you are doing, we used the Lasagna Gardening method. Do a google search for this. Basically, lay wet newspsper over the whole area to kill grass. There are recommended green and brown plant materials that you alternate in layers. This will build a raised bed. Let this sit for winter. When the weather warms worms will be attracted by the materials in your layers. You will have the most beautiful soil that you ever saw. The only drawback is gathering several materials.