So, first off I'd recommend starting out with a corn. Their temp and humidity needs are less complicated than for BPs, and they are more forgiving of husbandry mistakes; BPs just stop eating for you and stress out if things aren't right. Also, corns live 10-15 years. BPs can live to be over 30; if you've never had a snake you might not want to make a 30 year commitment.
That being said, if you have your heart set on a BP, they can be good beginner snakes so long as you're prepared first. It would be a good idea to set up the enclosure and have everything running and temp/humidity in the right ranges for a week or two before getting the snake, that way its transition to its new home will be smoother.
As far as temp, I prefer heat mats. Some people use lamps. It's just whatever works best for you. The important thing to get is a thermostat; that's a device with a probe that you place between the heat pad and the tank that keeps it from overheating and potentially burning the snake. I set mine to 90, and the temp never goes below 88 or above 91.
For humidity, I'd recommend using a tub with ventilation holes drilled in (like a plastic bin that has latches on it... you can usually find them at WalMart in all sizes) and not a tank. Not as pretty, but WAY easier to manage humidity. Also, certain beddings such as cocofiber or cypress mulch hold humidity well. You can also put wet sphagnum moss in a hide to create a small extra-humid area for the snake if it wants it.
Getting your snake out to handle it won't cause a problem as far as temps/humidity go as long as you're reasonable about it. I know some people that do marathon handling sessions for like an hour or more... I don't recommend that ever. It's just overkill IMO. But if you're just handling a normal amount of time, everything will be fine. (Obviously avoid any ridiculously cold or hot areas, but inside your house probably is in a safe range for that)
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