Sounds a little fishy to me. If someone wanted to come and take a look at my collection because they wanted to see parentage, etc, I would definitely ask for references, but would also definitely let them come out (I've actually done this with a couple people wanting to take a look at a rack and an animal I was selling).

Personally, I would wait until the Hamburg show. Shopping around is great fun, and you'll be able to find a bouncing little baby that catches your heart and your eye. Normal boas at a show like that will probably go for $75-$100. You may get lucky... Severus---now in the care of Jo---was a show find. Adoption fee was $30 because he had a kinked tail and a misaligned jaw. He grew out of his little quirks, and now he's one of the prettiest and well-mannered snakes out there (yep, I'm biased of course).

Plus, any breeder worth his salt will be able to answer any questions you have, and I'll bet you get to see an adult boa or two on your rounds