I would personally put that UTH on the bottom of the tank when you get your thermostat but I'm partial to belly heat vs. back heat.
If your bp ever has security problems (ie starts to become a fussy eater) I would keep in mind that you could black out 3 sides of the tank with construction paper, add more fake plants or crumpled up newspaper (not as pretty), and/or get some cave-like hides where there's not two open ends on each side since BPs like to be squished into their hides to feel extra secure.
I would ditch that analog thermometer as well as they've always been very inaccurate for me and get a digital thermometer (I like the Accurite brand, they're ~$10 - $12 at Walmart).