Newbie Tax Deduction

[Elizabeth Edgar]

Hello All! 

November 2020 was my introduction to the world of real estate investing.  I purchased some startup equipment and educational materials (dedicated laptop, BiggerPockets subscription, a few webinars) and a had a direct cost (an inspection on a non-owner occupied investment property I did not purchase) but did not have a real estate transaction before the end of the year, and did not set up any sort of legal business entity.  I have a W-2 job and my annual deductions are more than the standard deduction.  Can I write these real estate expenses? 

Thanks!