If I had to choose between a ball python and snapper for a pet I would choose snapper for the fact that they are more active and fun. But they do need a lot of room as adults.

As far as if its a fair trade money wise then imo no. I've seen babies go for $45 these were about 2". Not to sure what a 5" snapper go's for but I don't think it would be that much more until you start getting to the larger sized ones. It may also be WC. I guess its all up to you though.