House hacking an attic addition - Good questions to ask a CPA?

[Jessica Sorensen]

I'm about to complete an attic addition on our primary residence in Sacramento, CA. We plan to rent the space out (furnished) for short-terms, mainly 30-90 day rentals to healthcare workers (travelling nurses, drs, etc.) since we are close to several major hospitals. But we will also have a few super-short term rentals through AirBnb or other platforms occasionally, especially when we get through the pandemic and the nearby arena opens up again for major events. (Here's hoping!)

We expect to finish construction in Dec, so it's not likely we will have any renters until 2021, but we have spent a lot on the renovation this year. What can be deducted, if anything, at this point since we *intend* to rent the space out, but haven't yet? What other factors should we consider while we're looking for a CPA? Any tips on good questions to ask while we are screening for someone?

If there are any CPAs in the Sacramento area (or willing to work remotely!) that specialize in this area, please feel free to reach out. And if anyone can recommend someone they've enjoyed working with, please share below.