I've owned 3 or 4 over the years and some were worst than a small child,always getting into stuff and making a mess,others just the opposite.Seemed the males gave off more of an odour(once fixed and the scent glands removed).If properly trained(like any pet)they do calm down.Mine was only allowed to roam(under partial supervision
)while I was home,and not allowed out of the cage untill they used the litterbox(takes patience to train).Get yourself a good ferret book or you can call the ferret society(there should be one for Calgary,Edmonton has one)they adopt out and come to your house with a few adoptees to see which is suited for you and your house.
http://www.albertaferretsociety.com/
Jim