Hell if I had the cash I'd go with a walk-out basement.  I've drooled over a few of the American collectors basements and I think the sloping block that levels out to the back yard is a great idea.  You would need a block that slopes from the road (higher) to the backyard (Lower), then the stairs aren't needed to get the pins in, you just wheel them throught the back door.

That's my fantasy house anyway!  Good luck with whatever you decide.