Fantastic that your researching BEFORE getting a ball python. That is very responsible of you. Many people (including me) did not research quite as much as they should have when they plunged into the hobby.

Beware, snakes can become very addicting. Started with one, then two, now I have 22!
Let us know if you have any questions, there's a lot of knowledgeable keepers and breeders on this website who will be happy to help you out.

The only current advise I have for you is to purchase from a quality breeder either online or at a show. Avoid petstores if all possible.

Welcome to the site!