Is a duplex a good starting point?

[Jeffery Kroener]

I've been doing research in a few areas a lot of the areas seem like they would be a good place to start. But there are a few that stand out to me, Rochester, NY has some properties that look good to me but I have also seen some promise in a few properties in Florida. I'm in the military so I don't have a location set in stone on where to start. I'm looking for advice as this would be my first property. The returns on some of the duplexs look to good to be true, but the city does inspections on them to certify they are good for occupants. Should I get a home inspector before trying to go any further? And are there any good mentors out there who would be willing to help me figure things out and help get me moving in the right direction?