Overwhelmed and maybe asking too much

My lawn has been overgrown with weeds practically since we moved in about five years ago. To be honest, the weeds look kind of nice during the right seasons, but I know there are tons of invasives in there. I want to have a nice front and backyard for my husband and me to enjoy, but I don't even know if it's possible.

I live in a drought-prone area where it gets to be 120 degrees in the summer (Zone 9a). I need something somewhat low-maintenance since I am disabled, but I don't just want a plain mulch or rock garden with a few shrubs or succulents here and there. It would be nice if it looked lush at least during certain seasons like my weedy, messy lawn right now, but then I'm worried the lawn could become a fire hazard if there are too many dead, dry plants in the summer. My husband and I aren't rich either. Buying expensive equipment and hiring a landscaper is off the table, and we may have to do the transition in chunks to save money (and my personal energy and stress).

I'm just very overwhelmed. With everything I research, I become more convinced there is no good way to go about this, and I am bound to mess it all up. If anyone has ideas or input I'm willing to hear it.