Thank you Carl very much for all the information! I understand what you are telling me, that I can't deduct minor type repairs before renting, but it seems like JillS56 is saying I can add these expenses (e.g. painting) to the cost basis, and thus depreciate the amount. What do you say? I have about $6000 worth of pre-rental expenses on things like utilities, painting, landscaping, plumbing, electrical, etc. that I would like to depreciate, if possible. Can I add these to the cost basis of the house? Is there a way to do that legally? I also have heard of claiming them as "start-up costs", but I'm not familiar with this process. Any advice you can give would be appreciated.
