vacation rental question

[Tammy Bentley]

My husband and I recently purchases a cottage that we would like to rent weekly.  The cottage does need some repairs and improvements that will probably take 6 months or so to complete.   I am wondering if there are certain restrictions/ requirements for allowing us to claim the expenses/repairs without having rental income for the first 6 to 9 months?  Is there any experts in this area that I could also read their posts?  

Thank you