You will get on fine with rats if you put in the effort like with any pet. I have rats that sit on my shoulder whilst I am on the computer because I have trained them to do so whilst a couple of rescues that I have would never go on my shoulder and will run riot given half a chance.
With my boys I always have a few packs of value baby wipes and every day when playing with them I give the ladders etc a quick wipe as it helps to keep everything fresh. All pets have a certain odour and you will find that rats, male or female are the same but if you make sure you clean them out regularly it shouldnt be a problem.

Good luck with choosing your ratties....

Sharon