Hard to install is not an issue. Everything is hard to install for the OP, And install a tyre like that the OP would pay somebody to do maybe every 5 yrs?

The OP should ask (read) the advice from peopel in a similar situation w a similar ridingstyle, and not in the Commuting forum at BF. Also, can you tell me ONE tyre tat everybody in the commuting forum is satisfyed with and can recomend? The OP posted in the Utility forum. NOT in the Commuting and not in the road forum (or Bmx..). Different peopel need different solutions, that is all.

I agree that you need to find a new bikeshop if possible. Tell them about the feedback you get about this on the internet. Always ask them to return your punctured tube if you stick to inflated tubes on your bike. You kan patch it and keep it as a spare, but most important that tube can tell you a lot about what happened and why.

I do not recomend a floor pump. I have one, and some times I need to pump up some bikes where I need an adapter to get air in. My adapter is crappy (always loose the good ones) and therefor I often end up pumping w one arm. I am strong, and I can not recomend it. It is also difficult. Your one arm already need to work for two (arms), I suggest an electric pump. I have one small compressor I keep in the car. That one is ment for the power outlet in the car but I am sure something similar to plug in the wall. Price approx £10 around here. I also have a bigger portable one that my gow give out for free when they give peopel wheelchairs. Also electric w a battery. Bigger than you need, but I just want to tell you that there is solutions out there. With the right type of valve you can easely snap both on w one hand and then just press a button. For taking on the road try to look into a co2 cartridge system. Not all that ekspensive, used by peopel who need really high preassure like in racing bikes. I do not use one myself, but I think maybe it can work for you. It is only for backup, so you are not going to have to spend much on co2.

Somebody asked you where you live, and of course you are free to not tell us that. The cuestion is often asked when somebody is struggeling becouse there is a LOT of BF members in the US and in the world. If one of them is near you I am sure they are willing to help. Also it is common to help with parts for bikes. I have sent parts for peopel who need them (mainly for old bikes) and I would do it again. I am not in the US so I can not help you in person. Since you are a new member you can not use the private message system here, but if you have an e-mail that would help.

Brakes on your bike: I am afraid this is about price, cheap solution. It is possible to buy (unless somebody can send you a spare one) a brake handle that can operate two brakes at the same time. Also you can get one w a parking brake solution, but not sure if you can find one with both. Trying to load a bike that is not standing still is not easy w two hands so I can imagine doing it one handed.