huggybear,
one thing I have done on this site is use the search function. I'm a new owner myself. Every question I have had was answered by doing a search. The people on this site love to help one another and just about everything a beginner needs to get started can be answered that way. As for a good cage, it seems a lot of people are content using sterilite or rubbermaid tubs found at wal mart or target. Then do a search for hides, thermostats, thermometer, water dish, and substrate. It is all preference, but there is a ton of info on this site.
Good Luck
Jeff
"Parents are not interested in justice, they're interested in peace and quiet."
-Bill Cosby-
I highly recommend plastic tubs. They're inexpensive and make excellent homes because they are so easy to maintain. And you can also buy the very best size for your snake and just "upgrade" as he grows....which is sometimes harder to do with more expensive caging.
But if you want something more attractive, there are plenty of alternatives...as I'm sure you've seen.
Thanks so much guys. Its really good to be a member here on this site. I really like the way everyone is nice and not obnoxious. I am enjoying just looking and learning new stuff here. Thanks again.