Got it. My original plan for heat WAS (it can change though) a red bulb coming down from the top of the tank and then an additional basking lamp (but now I won't). The red bulb set up was a more appealing price than the UTH. But I can return bulb and get UTH if it's best.

I went to walmart today to find suitable hides now that I know the size of the snake. He's probably close to 3 feet long. Bought 2 plastic flower pots that seem like a good size. Not too big, a little snug. His current water bowl isn't big enough to fit his body, so I'll replace that for him.