Still keeping the mantra of “condominiums that defy the ordinary,” complete with its patent green-and-purple zebra logo, the condominium development and construction arm of the Qualico Group hopes to simplify the process of buying a condo for its buyers and trades people.

“We’re launching our new website in March, with a goal of being more conscious of the people we work with and for,” says Kendra Milne, Streetside marketing co-ordinator.

A comprehensive step-by-step guide will be among new tools available online, where would-be Streetside shoppers can also net helpful tips on everything from mortgage approval to when colour selections need to be made and how much and when deposits are required, to help for actually moving in.

“A lot of people ask the same questions, because the majority of Streetside’s buyers are first-time homebuyers, so we want to focus on what they want to know,” says Milne.

Streetside residents will be able to access the service department from the ’Net, ensuring the warranty and service process is simple and streamlined for homeowners.

Meanwhile, since it’s no secret tradespeople are swamped under impossible workloads, there will also be a spot for them to communicate with Streetside via computer, while building professionals looking for work will be able to bid for tenders on the site as well, says Milne, adding the concept was modelled after large companies’ sites in the U.S.

“We have so many projects on the go and coming up, so we’re always looking for new trades and suppliers. We are trying to simplify communication and assist our trades and suppliers by having information readily available. In this business anything we can do to help that relationship is key.”

In addition to “a number of new projects” set to hit the Calgary landscape – including some possible inner-city digs in 2006 and 2007 – Streetside currently has its collective finger in a multitude of condominium pies in Calgary and Okotoks.

For those looking to go west, Robson in the Summit of Montreux still has a few select apartment-style condo suites in the current phase, starting from $174,900 plus GST.

Terraced up a hill, the 160-unit complex will boast a BBQ pit, gazebo, and fitness centre as in-house perks, while mountain and valley views and quick access to the Westhills shopping Mecca and out of town hold appeal with a range of buyers, says Milne.

“There are actually two demographics we’re seeing. One is the young professionals who work, but don’t want to live in the inner-city, and the larger suites (1,000 square feet-plus) are mostly being bought by ‘downsizers,’ or young grandparents from the area.”

Meanwhile, those opting for more space, and perhaps some yard for their green, are opting for Tucker Hill addresses in the Okotoks community of Westmount, says Milne.

“The bungalow villas have done very well. Tucker Hill is half constructed and occupied,” says Milne, adding Streetside expects sales to wrap up for the 1,049 to 1,350 square foot semi-detached digs by late 2006.

With prices now starting at $247,900 excluding GST for the single-level plans with options for basement development, Tucker Hill still boasts some excellent value, says Milne, adding townhomes in the project have already sold out.

Condo shoppers who prefer their living space spread over a couple of levels can still nab their own two-storey stacked condo address at Blue Sky in Rocky Ridge Ranch.

While there are only a few suites left, 988 square foot, two bedroom and two bath designs are still up for grabs from the $253,000 range, says Milne. “The great thing about Blue Sky is every suite has a view of the mountains because it’s terraced down the hill.”

A new phase is slated for summer release at Blue Sky, including units with garages.

Inspired by a photo of a German castle, Royal Oak’s Red Haus – punctuated by its striking red roof tiles, is on schedule for residents come home to the first of four buildings, the Lindenburg, this coming fall. A new phase is set for summer release.

Unique to the project is its internal, Euro-style courtyard, which seems to appeal to a similar buyer as the Robson, says Milne. “It’s a lot of young professionals who may or may not be working downtown,” she says, adding a fitness centre and gathering room slated for the Club Haus,” (complete with a clock tower) add to the attraction.

A mix of suites is still available at Red Haus, from 643 square foot one bedrooms to two bedroom, 1,002 square foot selections, starting at $179,900, before GST.

Right across from Red Haus, townhome address Latitude, has caused quite a stir with buyers – a phenomenon for which Milne credits its widespread appeal with would-be residents from first-time buying singles to full-blown families.

With the final 21, 1,100  to 1,300 square foot abodes with garages left to be released for sales this summer, a waiting list of 200 names has already piled up. “I think it’s a great alternative for families,” say Milne.

For more information on Streetside’s condo offerings, visit http://www.streetsidehomes.com