Rental Expenses Incurred Before Property is Rented

[Robin Ryan]

We moved from our primary residence 4/25 and spent a few months painting, reflooring, etc before deciding to rent it instead of selling.  It was eventually rented on 8/15.  Question is - are mortgage interest & property taxes deductible in the period between 4/24 and 8/14?  What about the improvements-  are those added to the basis and depreciated effective 8/14?  Thank you!