Ok doing research on garters. I have decided I do want a garter snake

I've been looking every where I can reading up on them and I have an empty tank just calling a snake.
All I see around here are the albino ones, I am not a big fan of that particular color morph. So any info about heating lighting anyone can input would be greatly appreciated! I know what I've read here and there but would like input from those who actually have them.
Thanks!!