Hi all, first post here and I do not have a snake yet so please forgive any stupid questions. I did have a ball python for several years when I was a kid but my mom really didn't take good care of her and eventually gave her away while I was gone. I want to set up a shelving unit with a 40 breeder tank for a ball python on the bottom. Above that would be a 40 breeder aquarium and above that would be a 20 gallon aquarium (the shelving unit is rated for 1000 pounds per shelf).
I think I want to start with a younger snake though, would it be too difficult to set up the 40 with tons of stuff in it so the snake doesn't feel exposed? I would also like to only purchase all the heating pad and heat lamps etc. once instead of sizing up several times. How small/young do you suggest?
I'm also pretty unsure about where to buy a snake? I've seen some online but I'd love some personal opinions/experiences I'm leaning towards a champagne and want to stay around $200-300 total. I'm also looking at going to a repticon/reptiday but I'd likely be traveling several hours to go as well as going alone and I'm not exactly sure how to tell a healthy snake from a not so healthy one nor am I confident about hagling. However I do think I would like to see the actual snake in person and I feel like an expo would be an interesting experience.
Any help or suggestions are appreciated!