Here are my concerns that you need to rule out:
Airbag deletes are the scary part. There are ways to simulate the presence of an airbag so the computer thinks everything is OK when in fact there is just a fake airbag cover or a nonfunctional bag in the steering wheel or dash.
Frame damage is concerning as well, some "shops" will fix unrepairable frame rails that have been bent over beyond manufacturer repair specifications. They can pull it close enough, heat it cherry red, and pull it the rest of the way, close enough so other parts barely fit, maybe even bondo any evidence. When a collision comes, the crash protection isn't there since the metal has been fatigued and you end up with a paper accordion rail. check under the rear bumper to see if the floor and rails have been crumpled, same as under the hood, look at the frame rails / structure is a different or freshly painted color.
Flood vehicles. Depending if it's fresh water or salt water and how high the water went into the vehicle, it will mostly total because the interior and electronics were affected. Airbag computers mounted in the dash and floor along with all the other modern control boxes scattered throughout the floor and walls of the vehicle will get wet. You could end up with a mobile petri dish or corroded connectors, especially if it was salt water. Fresh water has less salts in the water but still will cause corrosion. If the car is overly scented that's a warning sign. Check the trunk / spare tire well for rusty bolts and gunk residue.
Definitely run a VIN through Carfax and scour the internet with the VIN # as
@Koainn mentioned, it's worth the money if you are serious about buying the car.
I personally would get my new driver a new or newer large vehicle, with all of the modern crash protection goodies and traction / stability control nannies. Being inexperienced these features can be helpful in the worst case scenario and it's not like future vehicles won't have them so might as well get used to them. I would rather drive an older vehicle my self, because I like wrenching and am a cheapo.