You might gently remind him of this and ask that he originate a new NOO loan at no cost.Just a thought.

There are so many twist and turns in a deal.  

Sometimes you just need to make a statement like I'm sorry I am not thinking straight today, I thought you wanted to sell this property today but now I get the feeling you would like to keep it and your being kind enough to let me down gently.

If you want to remove the piece from the cement, make sure the inside of the post is fairly clean and not filled w/ rust and dirt, then with a chisel, (or power chipping hammer) "GENTLY" fold the old post into the hole in the middle, it should loosen up and be able to be pulled out.

I would waive it this time, but make it clear how it needs to happen in the future, and maybe gently remind them that their future landlords will be asking you the all important question of "would you rent to them again?"

LOTS of things to know and twists can happen to either make this good or BAD!!!! 

Rich please be gentle with the response1) Real Estate not finding a bottom yet.

Gurus took this and twisted it into a method of dealing by those who have no job, no, money, no credit and no knowledge of business law, they made a "product" to sell. 

Be gentle.

The chimney will come into contact with the house at weird angles and it may twist a little.