Is my property a rental...or something else?

[NunYaBeezWax]

I purchased a property in 2024 with the thought of renting it in 2024. I listed for rent and received about 2 inquiries over a week or so. I then decided, based on feedback, to take it off the market, and remodel it slightly, before putting it back up for rent this year (2025). Is this property considered a rental, even though there was no income, or is this considered differently (2nd home, etc)? FYI, I also own a couple of other rental properties that were rented out for 2024, but am unsure how this one fits for this year.

[AmyC]

It is a second home and you can deduct any property taxes on sch A. Since you didn't really hold it out for rent long and decided to remodel, it is not a rental house for 2024. It will become a rental when you hold it out for rent in 2025. All remodeling will go into the basis of the house.