Advertising Feature

Here's a rare opportunity to own a little bit of Tuscany in the great American southwest.

As a bonus, this magnificent new resort condominium community also represents one of the last genuine real estate bargains to be found in the Phoenix district.

Known simply as Vantage, this 126-unit luxury condo complex is situated in one of the most desirable zip codes in Phoenix, the Ahwatukee Foothills of sun-splashed Arizona, minutes from Sky Harbour International Airport.

"We're expecting 130,000 people to move into the Phoenix area this winter, but we've priced Vantage as economically as possible. It's really an ideal window to buy," says Marilyn Pfaff, sales chief and marketing director for WestStone Communities, an award-winning international residential developer that is proud of its Canadian roots.

"We look at these units as an outstanding opportunity for Canadians to purchase a second home of high quality at once-in-a-lifetime, pre-construction prices," Pfaff continues.

She's not kidding. Ranging in size from 1,150 to 2,067 sq. ft., these incomparably priced two- and three-bedroom homes start in the low $300,000s US. With only 14 units to the acre, the community offers maximum privacy, including lush and spacious grounds and terrific mountain views in most suites.

"We have attracted enormous interest from Canadian buyers because of the outstanding lifestyle, superior amenities and convenience that Vantage offers," adds Brian Regehr, president of WestStone Communities. Vantage is surrounded by the serene mountains of the Foothills and is on one of the most pristine and sought-after pieces of land in the Ahwatukee Foothills. We are creating a sanctuary for homebuyers looking to purchase a second home and providing them with luxury residences, some of which would cost upwards of $1 million at similar communities a few miles away."

Now, about that Tuscan flavour. WestStone Communities recruited a dynamic design team to recreate an old-world Tuscan feel that lends elegance and dignity to these majestic residential structures.

Exterior highlights include stone turrets featuring plenty of windows and interior spiral staircases. Talk about charm. Stone trim is the order of the day in this trend-setting resort community, creating a warm and hospitable feel that recalls nothing more than the settled grace and refinement of old Europe.

Recreational opportunities abound in this vacation wonderland. As Pfaff points out, no fewer than four championship golf courses await you in the immediate vicinity.

As a foothills community that backs directly on to Arizona's renowned South Mountain, Vantage offers residents any number of recreational options, including hiking and cycling trails to die for. Shopping (including the second-largest mall in Phoenix), restaurants, spas, horseback riding ... they're all moments away.

But you can also enjoy yourself enormously without leaving your own backyard.

"We're offering an impressive package of resort-style amenities. We want you to consider them an extension of your own home," Pfaff says.

Start with the immaculate Vantage clubhouse, to include an eight-seat theatre with leather reclining chairs; a spacious main room with canterra-stone fireplace that overlooks two levels of pools; a formal dining room, available to residents for specially catered events; and a fully equipped fitness centre.

But let's backtrack to the large pool area for a moment.

It includes two different heated pools on two separate levels and an exquisite spa feature.

"We're also putting in an outdoor fireplace, including cabanas with built-in grills, plasma TV and raised bar. This outstanding communal space is right at the centre of the property, available to all," says Marilyn Pfaff.

But perhaps it's time to move indoors, to get a sense of the incredible interior quality that distinguishes Vantage.

To continue the Tuscan theme, each unit is equipped with a functional and elegant wine nook, either off the kitchen or dining room.

Other standard features of these breathtaking homes include fireplaces; stainless steel appliance packages; maple cabinetry; slab granite counter tops, for bathroom and kitchen; undermounted stainless steel sinks with faucet upgrades included; under-cabinet halogen tuck lighting; and top-of-the-line ceramic tiles.

One or two exterior balconies adorn every suite, a compelling selling feature that has drawn high praise from buyers.

"No doubt about it, the layout of each of these units is really something special," adds Pfaff. Attached garages are included with all residences.

Prospective buyers are invited to inquire how simple it can be to visit the Ahwatukee Foothills for a personalized tour of this one-of-a-kind property. Those who decide to buy will be compensated for the cost of the trip package.

Please visit the website (www.weststonecommunities.com) to view floor plans and to find contact information. And don't hesitate to inquire at the Vantage sales desk at the Calgary Condo Gallery: 403.266.4446.