Maui Wildfire: Hawaii Governor Warns Realtors Trying To Take Advantage of Disaster

Hawaii Governor Josh Green issued a stern warning to investors and realtors who have approached residents with offers to purchase land ravaged by the recent devastating Maui wildfire.

The governor's caution came amidst reports that some individuals have been contacting residents amid the crisis, seeking to acquire damaged properties, according to Newsweek.

Governor Green emphasized his concern over these actions in a press release, stating that he has initiated discussions with the attorney general to explore the possibility of imposing a moratorium on the sales of properties that have suffered damage or destruction due to the wildfires.

He underlined that the recovery process will be extensive, making it unrealistic for any growth or housing construction to occur in the immediate future.

"Attempting to take advantage of our people by acquiring their land and subsequently building on it would be ill-informed," Green warned.

The governor's remarks come in response to claims circulating on social media, with Maui residents reporting contact from realtors and investors expressing interest in buying their land as wildfires continue to blaze.

The Kāko'o Haleakalā organization, a local advocacy group, took to Instagram to address this issue, urging affected residents to gather information about these individuals and their businesses for public awareness.

The Maui wildfire, which ignited last week, has caused significant devastation, displacing over 4,000 individuals and resulting in a tragic death toll of at least 99.

Authorities anticipate that the number of casualties will rise in the following days as cadaver dogs continue their search through the fire-ravaged areas.

Residents of Maui faced a dire situation as the fires swiftly encroached upon their neighborhoods and towns.

The speed of the fire's approach left people with minimal time to collect their belongings before evacuating for their safety.

Investors Targeting Lahaina

The area of Lahaina, known for its scenic beauty, faces significant challenges as the wildfires have wreaked havoc on its homes and landscapes.

The average home value in Lahaina stands at approximately $1 million, making it a less accessible market for the average person, The Independent noted.

However, the influx of hotels, resorts, and condos has transformed it into an appealing and relatively affordable destination.

Residents who have witnessed the Maui wildfire firsthand express fears that investors might capitalize on the tragedy to acquire land at reduced prices for the construction of high-end resorts.

Richy Palalay, a resident who lost his workplace, neighborhood, and potentially his own home to the fires, voiced his apprehensions about developers seizing this moment for their gain.

On the other hand, Archie Kalepa, a Lahaina resident, highlighted the need to balance the long-term recovery, rebuilding efforts, and retaining the local community's connection to their land.

Moreover, John Dimuro, a long-time Maui resident, urged governmental intervention to safeguard the island's future.

Dimuro asserted that a flat-out refusal of development permits could protect against opportunistic land grabs.

FTC Warns of Scammers Targeting Wildfire Victims

The Federal Trade Commission issued a cautionary alert, noting that victims of the Maui wildfire could fall prey to scammers who often exploit vulnerable individuals in the aftermath of disasters, per Gillett News.

The FTC highlighted common scams, including imposter schemes where scammers pose as safety inspectors, government officials, or utility workers.

Residents are advised to be vigilant against offers for immediate clean-up, requests for payment via wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or cash, as well as any appeals for payment to supposedly facilitate eligibility for FEMA funds.

Both the Pacific Disaster Center and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have estimated that the wildfires damaged or destroyed over 2,200 structures, primarily residential, on Maui.

The rebuilding process is projected to exceed $5 billion, while around 4,500 residents require emergency shelter during the extensive recovery and reconstruction phase.

As the county navigates the long road to recovery following the devastating Maui wildfire, the community remains watchful against exploitative practices and is dedicated to safeguarding its land and future.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Hawaii Governor Warns Buying Land In Wake Of Maui Crisis 'Poorly Informed' - From Newsweek