How HPM Homes is Helping Lahaina Rebuild

The road to recovery after the devastating Lāhainā wildfires has been long and challenging for many families. But at HPM Homes, we've made it our mission to walk alongside these families every step of the way, helping turn empty lots back into homes filled with hope and laughter.

A One-Stop-Shop Approach to Rebuilding

When disaster strikes, the last thing families need is more complexity. HPM Homes has a comprehensive, one-stop-shop process specifically designed to ease the burden on Lāhainā homeowners who are already overwhelmed.

"We wanted to take care of as much as possible," explains Kim Sanchez, Maui Regional HPM Home Planner. From initial sketches to permit submissions, outsourcing architectural drafting to material delivery scheduling, the HPM team handles it all. Once permits are approved, our sales representatives review quotes and coordinate the delivery of materials to job sites, while our designers work with homeowners to select their finish materials.

The goal? To let families focus on healing while we focus on the details.

Ray Catagul's Story: A Testament to Perseverance

Ray Catagul was the first Lāhainā resident to complete his rebuild with HPM Homes, and his journey exemplifies both the challenges and triumphs of the rebuilding process.

Ray Catagul sitting on his home's foundation in Lāhainā, February 2025

"Ray was on it. He knew what he wanted and that he wanted to get home as soon as possible," Kim recalls. He chose the Pua Melia, a 3-bed, 3-bath model that reminded him of what he'd lost. "The floor plan fit our needs, and our architect was able to adjust it to our property," Ray said. "We really liked the layout—it's very similar to what we had, and that's what we wanted."

Ray made some modifications to suit his ʻohana's needs: upgrading from a carport to a garage and adding an ʻohana suite large enough for his daughter, and possibly mother-in-law, making it a true multi-generational home.

His determination, combined with HPM's streamlined process, resulted in quick approvals. Starting in August 2024, Ray worked through sketches, architectural plans, and the expedited permitting process offered by 4LEAF, Inc., a professional Develepment Services Firm that specializes in Fire Recovery Services, all completed within just a few months.

The construction phase utilized innovative solutions like wall panels provided by HPM and delivered directly to the site. This approach proved both time-efficient and waste-conscious, demonstrating how modern building techniques can accelerate the path home.

Wall panels set on foundation, April 2025

For Kim, watching Ray's project unfold was invaluable. "I got to see the construction side, the logistics of material delivery, the timelines for trusses, I got to see the entire project from start to finish" she shares. "Ray's building experience helped build my foundation for helping other Lāhainā families."

But the most rewarding moment? "Their smile," Kim says simply. "They were happy and home. Seeing clients back in their communities, in their homes, was priceless. They were able to enjoy the holidays this last year at home."

Ray's path to rebuilding revealed the true foundation of Lāhainā—not the structures, but the people. Family took him in immediately after the fire. A hotel in Kīhei provided shelter. Then friends offered their ʻohana unit with no timeline, just four words: "as long as you need." This is the strength of Maui's community—a tightknit ʻohana that shows up when it matters most.

Navigating Unique Challenges 

Rebuilding in Lāhainā has presented challenges that go beyond typical home construction. The most significant? Financing.

"Insurance companies don't always provide as much as people thought they would," Kim explains. "People have ideas of their forever home, but the insurance returns don't always align with what they want."

To bridge this gap, HPM Homes connects families with resources like Hawaii Community Lending and Habitat for Humanity.  "What's most important to us is getting you home," Kim emphasizes.

Another unique aspect of Lāhainā rebuilds? Construction timelines. Due to the large amount of construction happening, wait times for construction are longer than normal. 

Lessons Learned, Systems Improved

Working with Ray through his home rebuilding process, Kim learned a lot of lessons that will help guide her through her future rebuilds. Kim began working with HPM Sales Representatives and Truss Systems by HPM earlier in the process, ensuring everyone is familiar with project details and deliverables before permits are approved. "Our Sales Representatives stay up to date with current lead times, allowing them to better predict delivery schedules," Kim notes. This proactive approach means that once permits are approved, trusses and other long-lead items are ready to go.

25 Families and Counting

To date, Kim has worked with 25 homeowners in Lāhainā to help them through the rebuilding process. Ray Catagul's home stands as the first completion, with 24 more projects currently in the pipeline. Each represents not just a construction project, but a family's journey back to normalcy, back to community, back to home.

"It's about being part of these families' futures and helping give back to the Lāhainā community."

Ray & Lillian Catagul at their finished home with Kim Sanchez in Lāhainā, December 2025

A Message of Hope

For families still navigating the overwhelming process of rebuilding, Kim offers this invitation:

"HPM is here to help. I'm here to guide you through this process as simply as possible for you. Let's talk story about what you want, what you need and what you can afford. I have resources for the gap outside of insurance. Let me help you see light in the tunnel that seems impossible to get through."

She reminds homeowners that customization is possible—homes can be modified and oriented to utilize natural resources, creating spaces that are both personal and practical. The rebuilding of Lāhainā isn't just about structures; it's about restoring lives, memories, and the fabric of a community. At HPM Homes, we're honored to play a role in that restoration.

Ray offers some wisdom after going through his rebuilding process:

"Start early and don't wait. Work with your home planner, architect and contractor to work with your needs. Don't wait for a perfect plan, you can adjust it as you go, but start something."

If you or someone you know is ready to start the rebuilding journey, reach out to Kim Sanchez and the HPM Homes team. Together, we'll build your legacy with expert guidance, taking you from an empty lot to the place you can call home again.