When can I start tax deducts for a rental?

[Rony Rooman]

I currently live in my home but am planning on buying a new house and renting out my current property within a year.  It needs a few repairs and improvements before I'll rent it.  If I do some of these now, while I live in the home, can I deduct those expenses?  Or must I wait until I put the house on the market before those expenses would be tax deductible?

Thanks in advance!