Start by lining up a solid contractor, inspector, lender, and agent with investor experience. 

I can check the condition of the house by using inspector, right?

You asked where you can purchase 2-4 unit properties for under $250,000.There are several markets in Michigan that would offer properties in that price range with attractive places to visit with tenant demand and property appreciation.We have excellent, local property manager partners, inspectors, and local lenders.To Your Success! 

If you are serious you can go under contract at 288k, then let the inspector officially find all the issues then work down from there.

I was a licensed lead inspector and often attend the city's lead policy committee meeting, usually the only landlord in the building. 

However; it's important to understand that in most states, home inspectors are NOT licensed contractors, and they usually will disclose that, and that you should have certain things looked at by licensed trade.

They can introduce you to the best property inspector, lender, insurance agent, asset protection attorney, contractors, and property manager. 

Get a real good, thorough, nit-picky, inspector.

Quote from @Melissa Faraias: If you are doing permits on a rehab, the inspector will see other things that are not to city code and call them out.

In New England, with the freeze-thaw cycles and humidity swings, any moisture issues in a crawl space can spook inspectors and buyers fast.3.