I think getting a bumblebee right off the bat would save time and possible headaches if you don't hit the odds right. (which isn't hard, but it's possible.)

I think you'd spend as much money either way. Lets say you buy the two snakes. You have to feed the female for 2 years, feed the male for 1 year. Buying them shouldn't cost much, no more than $350 I'd assume. Actually you'd probly spend less buying the two snakes, but you'd distance yourself from breeding bumblebees.

Meh, I'll stick to saying it's personal preference.