Tax Benefit before 2011 Year End

Hi

What and how much tax benefits can I take in a year before 2011 year ends?

My Situation : Living in one of the apartments in a 3 Family House. 2 Apartments are on rent.
What I have in Mind : Things I can buy from Home depot/Lowes etc. and show those receipts for doing my tax.

Is there a maximum amount I can buy in a year and can be used to buy tools etc. to get tax benefit?
Is there a maximum amount I can make repairs/improvements for in a year to get maximum tax benefit?

This is my first question and I am new, please go easy on my question.

thanks…

why would you spend a dollar you don’t need to spend, just to save
25 cents on taxes?

If you need it, get it. Tax deductions just come along for the ride.