First of all i think because the snake needs quick care and ball python's are head shy all together im gonna skip the tweeking a tank till its proper idea, i think you should get a rubbermaid/sterilite tub depending on the size of the snake(? how long , or how many grams is he) i would say 15 qt tub. You said you have a human heat pad, does it have a dimmer switch type deal on it? If so i have used these before for quarantine. Where ever you have to find one get a digital thermometer / hygrometer, at a lawn and garden section of any type of home improvement store you have there. And acouple hides ( very small hides so he can cram himself in there, he will feel super secure and safe this way. Also being that he will be in a tub humidity will not be an issue. Its not as cool looking as a big display tank. But if you really want whats best for him this is the way to go.