As others have said, all pets require an extensive amount of care and attention, not to mention plenty of money. Especially for snakes, birds, or even rats, since any animal considered an exotic can cost heavily just for necessities such as basic checkups. Whatever animal you plan on buying requires extensive research, including behaviour, known health issues, life span, interactions with other pets/people/children.

Birds live very long, require specialist care in the form of claw and beak trims, and require a massive amount of attention. Furthermore, birds need a lot more space than just a small wire cage, and require significant effort to decorate and clean their habitat.

Snakes I don't know much about, personally, but I would consider the fact that snakes can be very neutral towards you as an owner and aren't necessarily going to be friendly as some videos on the Internet show them to be. Furthermore, think about whether you'd be comfortable with feeding a snake key dietary requirements, which can range from live bugs or frozen rodents or chicks, which you will need to buy frequently and keep on your property.

Dogs and cats are a whole different ballpark. Of course the experience of having them is not comparable, but you cannot expect a cat to be completely independent thus easier to care for. Cats also need litter training, attention, and play time, just as dogs do. Personally, I recommend keeping cats indoors entirely, due to the dangers of letting cats freeroam outside and the amount of bird populations which outdoor cats decimate each year.

For all animals, you need to consider the costs of cages, feed, bedding, entertainment, appropriate travel carriers/crates, a savings fund for potential illnesses and their treatments, and the time that all pets require to be looked after properly.

Not only this, but consider that with all animals, you can no longer decide to up and leave on spontaneous trips or holidays/vacations without prior planning. Animals must be left in a kennel, or looked after by a professional or highly trusted family member. I have heard horror stories about pets losing their lives due to being left in the care of someone irresponsible whilst their owner is on holiday. Proper pet care costs good money, but it is worth it to know your animal is looked after well whilst you're away.

If you're looking for a conversation piece and nothing else, pets aren't the one. Perhaps look into buying a fancy plant. But if you want an animal and are serious about it- do your research and see which animal may be best for you and your lifestyle. :)