If you have decided to transform your backyard from a boring place to a great space for outdoor enjoyment, good for you.

However, before you dial up a pool contractor, you owe it to yourself to do a little advanced homework. There are several things you should do before you proceed from decision-making to actual buying. Before you call concrete pool contractors, we recommend that you take the time to:

• Write out a wish list for your pool - If you've decided to get a custom pool, you're soon to discover the swimming pool contractor is going to ask many questions. The fact is that a good pool contractor can take your dreams and make them a reality as far as a backyard living space is concerned. However, he or she cannot make this, so if you cannot give a rough idea of what you are looking for. Some of the things you need to consider here include shape, size, special features, such as a spa, and so on. The more information you can give, the likely it is the design of your dreams will be produced.

• Take security into account - When a swimming pool is added into a backyard landscape, it's a good idea to consider security features, as well. Fencing or enclosures can help keep your pool safe from unwanted intruders of the two- and four-legged variety. Some contractors can help on this front personally. Others will often be able to make recommendations on proper security and whom to call in for assistance.

• Brainstorm financing - A good pool contractor will be able to help on this front, but it's still wise to sit down and crunch a few numbers first. At the very least, it's a good idea to know in advance figures for a down payment and how much you can afford in payments if financing is required. If you're paying outright for the project, the pool contractor will need to know your budget amount, as well.

• Research potential contractors - Hiring a pool contractor is a huge deal. To ensure you hire a reputable contractor capable of getting the job done right, you will need to do some serious homework. Look for contractors that have the proper licensing and insurance, of course. You will also likely want to consider reputation, experience and proven ability to design and build the kind of pools you are interested in.

• Consider a timetable - Your swimming pool contractor will likely want to know what type of timeframe you're considering for construction. If you're feeling the waters, so to say, make this clear. If you're forging ahead and want to have a pool designed, financed and constructed by a set date, you'll need to say so.

Having a pool installed and hiring a contractor to do the job is a huge undertaking. It does pay to invest time in advance to make sure the right pool contractor is hired for the job and that your desires, expectations and needs are made clear from the start.