How does Istikhara work? What signs should I notice?

Assalamu alaikum everyone. It’s been a bit over two years since I told my mother I wanted to move out. Mainly I couldn’t sleep or concentrate in my room because my father’s PTSD-related shouting at 4 AM made things unbearable, and I was really depressed. This was around late 2022 or early 2023. My mom said if we didn’t buy a house by the next year, I could do “whatever I want,” and SubhanAllah, soon after they put me downstairs in the garage-turned-room (landlord did that). I prayed istikhara about moving out. Then problems with my brother over household chores came up during Ramadan 2025. We argued because my brother is unemployed and doesn’t help, while the sisters (who work full time) do most of the housework. I considered moving out again, but it was delayed because my sister (born in 139-sorry-age 39) promised a new house would be bought soon and said my brother won’t be staying long; he’ll either remarry or go back to Iraq. We then lost our savings in an investment my sister made, so buying a house isn’t possible right now. Recently, that sister said she’s getting back a big loan from someone in our home country, and that would let us put a large down payment on a house where it would be just sister (30) and me living. I keep wondering: are these delays and difficulties from Allah (SWT) telling me something, or testing my patience? I have made istikhara several times this year. Am I doing istikhara incorrectly? What signs should I be looking for, and how do I know if moving out is the best choice according to Allah’s guidance? Any advice on how to continue making dua, read signs, and decide in a way that fits Islamic guidance would be really appreciated. JazākAllāhu khayr.