I totally agree! I would pick the category of resort first. See what you can afford. After the category is decided, then have fun and pick the actual resort! Have everyone in the family involved in the decision. It can be fun deciding! After accomodations are decided, what about thinking of what parks, what days based on THIS years hours? Of course, things are bound to change. But at least you will be planning! Then of course, you can try to plan which ADRs you want to make each day!! Then 6 months before your vacay, you can call for those exact ADRs.
Like I said, a lot will probably change between now and then, but at least you will have a few rough drafts!
HAVE FUN!!!!