I've met very few nice nics. Even "tolerable" nics.. IMO, they make a poor pet snake unless you're willing to work with them, and even then there are no guarantees. I've had adults be tolerant of handling and then suddenly decide they will strike anything that moves. Sold my entire group because i couldn't stand it anymore.
I would absolutely suggest carpets. A beautiful display snake would be a jag carpet. OMG the pretty!