I'm now experimenting with a files-based approach, using syncthing for the p2p syncing, and it works really well.
No VPS or home server to setup and maintain, no security worries, no database migrations, no extra backups, no tinkering with Caddy configs.
The problem is that we have all been tricked into cloud syncing because big tech couldn't figure out proper local sync and they actually have incentives not to because they would really like you to pay to their subscriptions for storage on which they have great margins.
Yet for the vast majority of people what would be needed is just very simple syncing between their phone and personal computer. It should work with a cable for speed but also wirelessly for convenience and that's it.
All the crap they add on top is mostly overengineered crap that sometimes doesn't even work and creates interdependence/lock-in.