hey
I read your other thread and don't think it's that bad overall. ( I realize I'm adding to this post but anyway..)
The brakes are easy, and replacing the wheel cylinders isn't that bad either. Count on having to replace the rigid brake lines from the wheel cylinder to the flex line. Those parts are very inexpensive. Once that's done, the bleed procedure is pretty simple. If you haven't already, get a subscription to alldatadiy.com. It'll be the best $20 you'll spend.
The sway bar bushings are not too bad, the only scary part is lowering the subframe by about 2 inches. The bushings are inexpensive and slip on pretty quick. I can do both sway bar bushings in 20 min.. I'm no super tech or anything, it's just not that bad a job.
Rear shocks are simple, and make sure the e-cable is out of the way an not rubbing on the shock, which is a common cause of the leaking along the cylinder.
Regarding the struts, I'd be using a quick strut when replacing what's there. They generally are around $200 each. You won't need a spring compressor, and assuming the design is the same as my 2000 (I think it is) you won't need any camber plates. I for sure would take the cowl off, it's a 10 min job and makes getting to the shock towers way easier. You may want to also replace the tie rod ends, the lower control arms, and the sway bar links. If you were to do this, you essentially have a new front end, and with the mileage on the van, it's work that likely will need to be done fairly soon. I replaced my sway bar bushings, links, inner/outer tie rod ends, LCAs, shocks/springs (with quick struts) for $680 tax in about 4 years ago as an example. The tires you'll have to buy and get installed of course and once the suspension stuff is done it'd be best to have an alignment, a reputable shop again is needed.
About a week before you plan to do the work, spray all the fasteners with some kroil or pb blaster. That'll get the fasteners loosened once you start to wrench.
I bet a weekend's worth of maintenance and you'd be done. I'd imagine the cost would be about 1/3 of what you've been told (ie: you'd be paying for parts only).
I've done all the jobs you mention and have no formal training. Get the alldata subscription and plan away. Any further questions, just post. There's lotsa good advice and willing "helpers" here.
np