Once that stuff starts breaking it will continue to be a constant headache. 

And while the prices here won't continue to spiral upwards forever, they won't come down to a significant degree - they'll likely plateau for a moment.

Then continue finding the other listing brokers. 

Not only that, but it all my coworkers hate their job as well so it is a continuous cesspool of negative energy.

PM's need to be trained/guided to work properly with your style and expectations of doing things, or they will get feral just like anyone else.

I have thought to perhaps tell him to wait until I find something first, then continue with the deal.

After a few years the IRS ability to Audit is diminished with time (approximately 2-3 years) and the trust will be "Old and Cold" and we could continue to sell and conduct 1031's at that point.

We're doing underground hobbit style homes that are domes buried underground.

Make sure to over the podcasts - BP and otherwise - and continue to educate yourself.

If you continue with your process, this will not be the last time this happens to you.