Well the IPS patch method did come up, which was rather straightforward for users (like one or two steps more than immediately playing the game). The only problem is that the method can't be used for installing multiple mods, which really is also a problem for hosting modded versions, too. Though that concern might be a bit moot because I don't really know if there are many mods for that lack of compatibility to be an issue! xP
I had been considering trying to focus on more gamedev stuff recently, so there is a chance I come back to this and work on more of the mods I had ideas for. I'd decided to have them all the mods be part of the same modded instance for ease of installation, with in-game options to toggle each one on/off. Being able to host the modded version without requiring anyone to have to install them sounds like a sweet deal, thanks!