thinking about getting a ball python, what do i need?

[RoseyReps]

Generally the ones from petstores are not going to be taking f/t, So you'll have to switch them over yourself. Not saying no petstores, but most I have seen do live or stunned.

Thermostats - For cheap but functional http://www.amazon.com/Hydrofarm-MTPR...arm+thermostat
The best ones are around $100 and worth saving up for, but the cheap one will work until you can save the money for the higher end. (Herpstat, http://www.reptilebasics.com/thermostats, etc)

Heat pad or tape, flexwatt you'll have to wire yourself but it's cheaper. UTH seems to be fine for one tub / tank though. Ultratherm heat pads seem to be the most recommended of the UT pads http://www.reptilebasics.com/ultratherm-heat-pads

2 identical hides. one entrance (not the half log style) dark, secure (touches the snakes on all sides) many suggest the reptile basics hides (same site I listed for the heat pads and higher end tStat) also there are some DIY cheaper options like cut & sanded plastic bowls, planter bases etc.

Sterlite bin - size will depend on what size snake you end up with.

Bedding - Aspen, Cypress mulch, newspaper, paper towels are all good. Keeping price down would be newpaper or paper towels.

Mice - size will depend on your snake, 10-15% of your snakes body weight

Temp gun - http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...-for-the-money

thermometer / hygrometer - most will suggest the accurite indoor/outdoor + humidity. They can be found in most walmarts for under $12 http://www.acurite.com/weather/therm...red-probe.html

Added:
digital scale that measures in grams (food scale etc)

Welcome

Edit: As stated above, petstores WAY overcharge for captive hatched babies. That, plus the high risk of mites / RI / etc doesn't bode to well for the petstore purchase. You can normally get pretty little hatchling normals from breeders for $30 or so. Depending on where you live, you might have some breeders within driving distance (so you wouldn't have to worry about shipping). Reptile expo's are also nice so you can see them in person and speak with the breeders about all your questions.