I would prefer to buy local but there aren't any breeders here in N.Florida. But, I will never buy from the big 'Box Store' distributors.
So I try and buy from the smaller independent breeders with a good reputation and good communication. I purchased most of my snakes from Brandon at Mid-West Reptile Collective. And I will never hesitate to buy from him again because I know that my $$$ will go to his family and his business.