Ok, just wanted to confirm the steps from the OP (with some more comments).
Unclipping the boot for the shift knob is VERY easy. I used the following plastic tools to help but I think it was overkill. Not sure you need any tools actually...just push the edge toward the interior.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
However pulling the shift knob itself was a pain. In my case, I needed to pull like a mad man. To the point where I almost gave up and started doubting the steps mentioned here. It came out eventually but it was scary to break something. Installing the CF one is trivial and takes 30 seconds at most.
The handbrake was easier in my case. Like OP said, it's a bit tighter so maybe the plastic tool is needed here. Open the center console and start unclipping from the top and go from there. Sliding out the hand brake was not too bad - I twisted a bit while pulling forward and it came out somewhat easily. Installing the CF one is trivial.
Overall, the whole replacement for both pieces took less than 5 minutes.