SY---so, you're on a budget. You know your tires are a limiting factor for what you want to do.
A flip kit will have a 5-6" drop by itself. So, that would be out. Are you measuring from the axle
To the frame or axle to bump stop? I also have 3 leafs removed from a 6 leaf pack. That dropped real quite a bit. I added 2" shackles, but I had more tire clearance . My suggestion for you is to
Install 2" shackles and c-notch now if you think you may lower or flip it later. My .02. Jerry