I am going to wade back in. I think that snakes can be housed together well.

Skip I think you will agree, this is also not something done from cost saving or lack of experience. this is best left for those that have the experience to do so correctly. Skip, is it easier? cheaper? or less work?

The people I know whom do would soundly answer NO none of the above.

there are two answers here, should a beginner house two animals together... ? NO absolutely not! Is it better if a pet store does NO again.

Can a expert maintain all the correct balances and do so with the best interests of the animals in mind? Yes.

There are few hard no answers in husbandry.