Adam Krull
Pāpa’ikou, Hawai’i
My wife, Theresa, and I have known Mr. Calhoon (‘Rusty’) for about five years. We had the good fortune to meet him while we were looking for our home here in Hawai’i. Because of our limited budget we knew we would need expertise and advice putting any (pre-owned) home we would purchase in order.
We had done some ‘homework’ before we moved here. We knew that Hawai’i presents difficult problems for construction. Water, pests, age, unpermitted construction, improper materials and methods are the norm in existing structures. I am a retired programmer, unfamiliar with physical construction. I did not have the knowledge I needed to ascertain the economics of a used home purchase. And, I would need to do much of the work myself.
Our relationship grew when Rusty invited me to participate in the reconstruction of a badly damaged plantation home (i.e. decades of ‘deferred maintenance’ and abuse) – to learn. Rusty is a ‘teaching’ contractor. I worked with Rusty a few hours a week for many months on that home. He taught me what equipment to use, work site safety, and how to use tools properly. His knowledge of building codes, materials, and building methods is encyclopedic. Rusty constantly solved problems that were difficult; some looked insuperable. They were not. My knowledge base and skill set are vastly improved.
We had the opportunity to view numerous constructions in the area as we often hired Rusty to come along when we viewed potential homes. Rusty spotted things we would not have seen, and when we asked for his potential repair budgets he provided them in rapid order (the real estate market is volatile here, if you don’t make an offer (often within hours), you lose the opportunity). Later we employed Rusty as a home inspector during several escrows (we did not complete several purchases.)
We have followed along with interest as Rusty executed other contracts here on the Big Island. Rusty demonstrates his breadth, and exercises his local network to great advantage. He knows about architects, the planning and permit processes, where to resource materials and tools, supply chain timing (Hawai’i!), labor sourcing / direction / management, reliable and competent sub-contractors, time and cost management, and creative problem solving at the job site.
Rusty presents alternate solutions to the property owner, describes problems that need decisions clearly, and communicates the nature and progress of the job well.
We finally purchased our homes about a year ago. Two permitted structures (1979, 1990) on a small lot (we need a rental).
Most of the infrastructure was in disrepair and non-functional, or improperly constructed in the first place. Rusty has been invaluable to us. We knew what we were getting into. Although we do not hire him continuously, he has stayed with us constantly – more or less on call despite his other obligations. He answers my e-mail questions almost daily.
Where knowledge, a skill set, timing, or the physical demands are beyond me, we hire Rusty to step in. For the rest, I have been exercising the knowledge and direction Rusty imparts to me, and availing myself of his oversight (not to mention his vehicles!). We have the main house close to move-in ready, and the ‘ohana in rentable order (we live there now).
We consider Rusty a good friend. Rusty has been generous, fair, and helpful throughout the years we have known him. Rusty truly understands and lives aloha (friendship and giving), ‘ohana (extended family), and pono (goodness and correctness; morality) in both business and personal relationships. Rusty cares.
We respect and revere our relationship with Rusty.