you could tell them:
they are hypoallergenic
no shedding (fur, that is), no walking, spot clean the tank once or twice a week
they eat once a week (on average)
they do not smell
you don't have to pay someone to board them when you go on vacation
good luck though. i'm in the same boat - i have wanted a snake forever. took owning my own place before i was able to get one. i am glad i waited, though. they are a big commitment as they live to be quite old, at 15-20+ yrs.