I think a BP is a great idea for a first snake (it was my first snake and now I have a few of them)
Make sure to read up on husbandry requirements and make sure you have the heat source (whichever you decide to use) connected to a thermostat! This is very important. Read through what you need to do in these respects and try to get your enclosure set up and perfect husbandry before you buy your addition.
Check around locally to see what prey items you can source for your pet, if it will be difficult to get live then try to get a snake which is established eating on F/T. Be prepared that you may have to try live at some point (this may never happen but you have to be willing to do this should you have to)
You sound like you're very happy to go with a normal (everyone needs a normal in their collection I think) and I'm sure there will be a lot more around at quite reasonable prices. I do like to buy where I can see the snake but when inexperienced this doesn't help a great lot. Go with someone who is reputable, as said above I wouldn't go with a large pet chain as they tend to be clueless, go with somewhere that will offer advice and assistance should you ever feel in need of it.
I like to go with young animals that have records of shedding, feeding etc so I have a bit of history on the animal and I like to get details on the animal before I buy it too so I know I am making a good decision. Speaking to the seller/breeder should make you feel more secure about your purchase.
My first was around 4 months old, I wasn't comfortable with the smaller ones or yearlings. My second was a yearly and my other 6 are hatchlings. I prefer the younger snake so I can grow and learn as it does. Personal preference. Remember these guys can live for 20+years so be sure that you definitely want this.
I can only advise to research, and then research some more. Utilise the forums and ask anything you can think to ask. There are plenty of people here to help you!
Finally, when you get your little one, pictures are a requirement!
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