Edit: Whoops sorry, I read the entire post.
Anyway I was going to do the same thing as you and start off on a low dosage like .25 mg and graduate myself upwards, and maybe add in minoxidil later. I tried propecia earlier this year in october, but bailed after testicular ache and having a problem getting an erection. But a doctor I saw recently freaked me out about cutting the pills in front of women, seeing as how I basically live with my gf, and also that less dosage might not be as effective as more dosage.
I wish I started off earlier. I'm going to be starting off much worse off then you, but I still reserve hope. I've been searching for posts of guys taking less then 1 mg to see how that works out. Good luck!