Tax strategies on first rental property

[Puja Devi]

Hi all - wanted your input on the following.

I closed on my first OOS rental property 12/31/2021 (signed paperwork with notary) but the funds didn't settle until the new year. So on the CD, closing date is still 12/31/21 but in actuality, I fully closed on mortgage 1/3/2022. Am I  able to deduct some of the closing costs for 2021 taxes because that's what's written on paper? Or can I wait until 2022 to claim them - and by then, I'll have rental income and other associated expenses?

For 2021, since I didn't have any rental income, nor any other operating expenses, the standard 12k deductions would be my best option. But if I can deduct the closing costs in 2022 that would help lower my taxable income markedly. Just wondering what year I'd be able to expense these closing costs specifically.

Thanks!