The short answer would be no.
If you deducted the cost, and also add it to your basis, that would amount to a double deduction.
depending on the type and amount of improvements made, they possibly should be capitalized and depreciated or amortized. The question is very general, therefore a specific answer can't be given in terms of whether to deduct or capitalize. But you certainly can't deduct and then also add to basis.
For some guidance on repair (deduction) vs. improvements, here is a link to Pub 527
https://www.irs.gov/publications/p527
**Disclaimer: Effort has been made to offer correct information; but due to the discussion forum limitations, the poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the poster's response**
