Get a property inspector to confirm the exact condition of the house.Ask an agent or, preferably, a property manager about the general rentability in the area.

And do what some of the elders do... don’t ever let an inspector inside.

I have spoken with the building commissioner and it seems like no building inspector is willing to just go out there and walk around and give a list of things that need to be brought up to code.

I had the home inspection done this passing Friday, and the inspector noted a cracked roof ridge beam in the attic. 

I know of several investors out there that have JV programs where you can lean on their experience, resources and network (contractors, agents, inspectors etc.) while still doing the majority of the project yourself.

That suggests to me that the Section 8 inspectors must find a violation(or three) to justify their jobs. 

But inspector cannot access crawler basement to check house structure.

I am looking for recommendations for really good home inspectors.

The unit is already built out then and you can probably begin renting it right away or after some minor facelift work.To get a basement apartment you'd have to deal with city inspectors and zoning and all that crap. 

Perhaps a nice 1950's built bungalow.Always hire a 3rd party property inspector to give you an unbiased feel for the home.