wow lot of information going on in this thread.
If it was me i would do a Paver Patio. It is better than a stamped concrete slab. One because it provides different color options and a mix of colors as well. Two, It definitely provides a better look down the road.
Pavers are pretty easy to put down and do yourself. Especially since you have an easy open area to work with. Since you want to build up to have a level step coming off the house it isnt a problem.
All you need is the following:
1:Underlayment, this helps retain the base material from going into the dirt and causing your patio to sink later.
2: Base material #411/46D This is your foundation/footer of the patio
3: Plate compactor, this is used to compact the base material. compact 2 inches at a time otherwise you will be at it all day
4: #9's - this is used only as the final leveling material for your pavers. It is spread out an inch think over the base and the pavers sit right on top of them.
5: Pavers
6: Polymeric sand- this is brushed in once everything is completed, it a polymer so it will harder up and keep your bricks from moving. It does not need reapplied.
7: mortar - We use this around the edge of the pavers instead of edging material. Edging usually pops up over the years and can brings your pavers with it. Mortar works a lot better.
8: Grinder/Chop to make any cuts necessary.
It may seem like a lot but for what you are doing it wouldnt be too hard. The only thing is if you do build up you will need a wallstone to hook in the base material.
Check out this site for more pictures of things to help you figure something out.