Questions from a reptile noob...

[Misha]

So I've been interested in snakes for a while now, specifically the ball python. I've done some research on these beautiful creatures, and at first I thought I learned enough information to be able to care for one adequately, but now I'm having second thoughts. So I came here hoping you wonderful people could help clear some things up for me.

1. What size rodent would an adult female ball python (4-5 ft) eat? Would it be a mouse or rat, and what sizing? And when exactly would I feed her? I've heard every 5-7 days, but I've also heard that some people feed theirs every 10 days, or even once a month. What do you recommend?
2. According to my notes, the warm side of the enclosure should be 95 F and 78 F for the cool side. Are those good temps? I've also heard that the humidity should be around 40-60% regularly and 70% during shedding, is that correct? What do you recommend?
3. Should they have 8-12 hours of light daily and have a night/day cycle? I've been told that it's best for them, but I've also been told that it stresses them out.
4. I'm a little worried about scale rot and other illnesses my (maybe) future snake could get, what are some common illnesses snakes get and how are they treated? How can I prevent any of these from occurring?
5. I know ball pythons can be picky eaters. If they stop eating, how can I get them to eat again? I plan on feeding frozen, but what if they don't take? Or how would I switch them over to eating live/frozen?
6. What would be the best place to purchase a ball python? I've heard expos are great places, but a reptile/aquatics store near me sells some nice snakes for a good price, they seem to be healthy, and the staff seems knowledgeable. What would you do? Also, what should I look for when purchasing a snake (like, how should I make sure everything is healthy, no mites, breathing issues, etc.)?
7. This isn't really a question, but what is some good advice you experienced snake owners can give me? What are some valuable things I will be needing for my possible future snake (besides heating mat, hides, water bowl)? What are some things I should/need to know before getting a snake?

I'm sorry if this seems a bit much, I just want to make sure I'm fully prepared and capable before I bring home one of these cuties...

note: I'm a little dyslexic, so I sorta have trouble understanding things, even after reading about them, so please have patience or try to explain it very simply please, thanks!