What should I look for when hiring a water feature contractor in Albuquerque, NM

I have been thinking about adding a custom water feature to my property and am currently researching local contractors before making any decisions. I like the idea of having something that fits naturally with the landscaping rather than installing a basic fountain that looks out of place.

One company that came up during my research was The Art of Water. Has anyone here hired them for a pond, waterfall, fountain, or another type of outdoor water feature? I would be interested in hearing how the planning process went and whether they were helpful with choosing a design that matched the property.

For anyone who has hired a water feature contractor in Albuquerque, NM, how did you compare different contractors? Did you focus more on previous projects, experience, materials, maintenance options, or the initial estimate?

I am also wondering how important local experience is. Albuquerque has its own climate and water considerations, so should I specifically look for a water feature contractor in Albuquerque, NM who regularly works on projects in the area?

Another thing I would like to understand is maintenance. Are there particular pumps, filtration systems, or water circulation setups that make ongoing care easier? I would rather plan for maintenance during installation than deal with expensive problems later.

If you have experience with The Art of Water, what stood out about their workmanship and customer service? I am mainly looking for genuine experiences from property owners who have completed similar projects.

What would you recommend checking before choosing a contractor for this type of project?