OK here is my few cents...

1. Get your habitat set up and running for a few days (if not at least a week) so that you know what is happening before you get your new friend.

2. If you live in MD contact Adam Wysocki over at 8Ball Pythons. He has great animals and good prices. He is respected by almost all in the reptile community, if not it is because they are jealous!

3. I would go with a tub. I spent almost $500 on a cage enclosure and it is collecting dust. Tubs are quick and easy to maintain.

If you are wanting to have an animal you can watch and be mesmerized by look at something else.

If you want an BP to display get a tank. There is a great little how-to here

Hope this helps some.

Mike