Deducting Expenses You Incur Before Your RE Business Begins

[Mark Stone]

Hey guys,

I came across this article by NOLO, which from my experience has been a pretty good resource, but wanted to get your thought on the topic.

http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/deducting-e...

It appears to address tax write-offs for new RE Investors. Last year I purchased my first property (triplex, owner-occupied) and I am thinking I may have missed out on some potential write-offs specific for new investors.

For example, I did a total rehab on my front unit. This rehab took me a ridiculous amount of time (8-10 months) bc of other life situations I was dealing with. During this time I had utilities connected and was paying for them monthly (water and electric). My CPA last year said I couldn't write this off due to the fact that I didn't have a tenant in the front unit during the year nor was I actively marketing it at any point for 2015, it was eventually rented in 2016. 

Could there be an exception to the rule for me since I was a new RE investor?

Thanks for your help!