More Complex Tax Deductions for Airbnb Income

[Ashley Rothacker]

Hello! Wanted to discuss the more complex tax deductions for short term rentals/Airbnbs. The two STRs I own are 100% exclusively used as STRs. I'm familiar with all the basic deductions i.e. cleaning fees, utilities, supplies, mortgage interest, insurance etc. so curious about the less clear ones:

- Home office deduction: I manage the STRs from my home residence, if I'm reporting the income on Schedule E can I still take a home office deduction (rent/utilities)? From what I read it seems this can be a tricky one and is usually one the IRS likes to audit?

- Pass through tax deduction: This states that if your rental activity qualifies as a business for tax purposes, you may be eligible to deduct up to 20% of your net income. Again, is this something that can be taken on Schedule E?

- Mortgage: Is this fully deductible if the property is exclusively used as a STR?

I am working on finding a CPA to help me with this all but it's been hard to find someone with a lot of STR experience, so trying to understand as much as I can myself :)

Thanks!!