Looking to buy an AR -15

Just got this new for $1,225 new out the door...had the older version and never a hiccup with any S&W M&P15...

 

...i think it's still "catch as catch can" for ARs at the moment...

...that said, i always like to encourage newbies to first prioritize configurations/parts, as that can really help narrow things down in what is a diverse market...

1) barrel length?... 16", 18", 20", ....bull barrel, m4-profile barrel, heavy barrel (my fav)
2) barrel material/props: chrome-lined, or not, ...stainless (usually bull barrels)?,
3) gas system: carbine-length, mid-length, rifle-length, ...mid length is a good compromise, nice for 16" rifles, soft-shooting and roomy hand/gear real estate
4) cartridge chambering: .223/5.56mm (most popular), other more exotics like 6.8 SPC, etc.. several flavors
5) finish; generally hardcoat anodized, ...but in matte or satin?, ...satin cleans up easier... various colorations other than black available now as well
6) front sight: railed gas block for removable sight, or fixed front site (traditional)...
7) stock: collapsable, or fixed...
8) other furniture?? rails, stocks, grips, selectors, triggers, etc... (mr. potato head for adults )

...i'd also recommend getting a decent cleaning rod, and some cleaning tools specific for the AR; chamber brush, short non-swivel cleaning rod (for cleaning chamber), .22 patches, ...if the money is burning a hole in your pocket - some nice scraper-type tools out there to really help clean the tail of the bolt (which can be a PITA)