Considering switching from glass tank to PVC, but had some questions.

[Mr. Misha]

So doing the math, it looks like I'd run something like $560, a lot of that coming from the Herpstat 2. But the 2 would allow me to run both a RHP (keep the whole cage at 80ish), and a flexwatt for hotspot.

You can always post a wanted ad on the For Sale part of this forum or Fauna Classifieds for a used Herpstat. I got one of mine Herpstat 4s for $200 bucks. I just put what I was looking for and what I was willing to pay.

Switching to PVC is probably the best decision i've ever made! With the RHPs connected to my Herpstats I never worry about temps (I also live in California which helps). Just make sure you get a proper wattage RHP for the enclosure.

If you want to increase humidity, i'd suggest using coconut husk as substrate. It absorbs moisture very well and pro ides great humidity. Additionally, if I were you, i'd go for the AP T8 instead of the T3 just because the T8 will work as a forever home for your snake.

Also if you haven't yet, check out this thread. It will answer a lot of your questions:
http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?t=165571