1) I use aspen and simple paper towel substrate (not together, some have aspen and others are on paper towels)

2) Acurite brand digital thermometers, you can get them at Walmart for about $12

3) I don't really do tanks as I do tub and rack set ups, but for babies 10 gallons are usually recommended. I like under tank heaters for belly heat but they MUST be on a thermostat as they can get way too hot and possibly burn your snake. There's a cheaper thermostat that some use that's around $30 so I'm sure someone can provide you the link, I think you can get it on amazon. Must have two hides for the warm and cold side (recommend they be identical), water dish, lots of fake plants or whatnot to provide security, and I recommend blacking out three sides of the tank (for more security). I would set up the tank first before the snake gets here so you can make sure your temps are where they should be.

4) There's so much more I could offer but for starts here's the BP caresheet: http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...s%29-Caresheet

As any and all questions you might have here and congrats on the new incoming pickup!