First-Time Snake Owner, Considering A Ball Python

[Bmocken]

I've looked at AP cages. Really nice, but very expensive. I can pick up a used 36x18x12 (That's a 30 gallon, if I remember my geometry well enough) glass terrarium from the pet store I mentioned for $30.

A clear tub would work pretty well though. Fairly escape-proof, too, right? Is there any issue with the plastic melting from the UTH? Or is 90 not hot enough to do that?

I would highly recommend using a tub. I have mine in a tub that has locks for the lid on either end and no the uth if controlled correctly with a thermostat will not melt the plastic. Your hotspot should only be 90 and that can't melt plastic. While glass is tempting price wise it is much more difficult to control humidity and temps. A tub is even cheaper then a glass tank and is a lot easier to maintain the correct environment.