I already got my work permit when I used the immigration consultant's services - in other words I did not need any help getting a job from them. Frankly speaking I do not know much about the new scoring system under the express entry.
In the case of getting job offer whilst you are abroad - I can only say that it is extremely rare for folks in the IT industry. Unless you posses an extremely rare skillset that is hard to come by, you application is not worth the HR's while. Take for example, in my world of software integration, Websphere MQ and Message Broker on System z platform talents don't come by very often. Someone with a confirmed skillset like that may get potential employers scrambling to hire them and also jump over all hurdles to make sure they are able to work here. That'll mean getting you a working permit. Now unless, PR (express entry) is just as fast as working permit, they'd be willing to help you with the PR instead. Otherwise it all depends on which is faster. I've heard that with the express entry, if you do have a job offer, it can very fast to get it processed.
The site: have a listing of jobs with LMIA available or go to for companies who are willing to wait and help you with your work permit application.
Now, if you do not have job offer, I would think it would take longer for your application to be process - but I am not sure. Do check with an actual immigration consultant. These are the things you will benefit if you do not cheap out on getting an immigration consultant. They (the good ones) can advise you properly. You do not need to be in the same country as them. My consultant was in Toronto all the while, while I was in Halifax. I never at one moment met her.
The other option is to apply for further studies e.g. a pretty quick masters (2 years maybe - just avoid anything that requires a thesis) and while you are doing that your spouse can have a open work permit (meaning can work with any company). Then when you graduate, its very easy to obtain a work permit and then eventually enroute to a PR. This may be longer. But if your spouse do work, her / your (depending who studies) salary can help to work out the cost of living. As to the tuition fees, if you do masters, you can apply for a TA or an RA which will also help out a bit. Its not luxury but its definitely a way to get your foot in - legally. Now if this option suites you or interest you, and you do not mind going to Halifax, NS, just PM me (nicely of course), and I'll share further details on what to expect, which course you should target for and which place to rent to save cost etc etc.