there's a good section on curing and seasoning timbers in "the timberframer's workshop"....available at
www.foxmaple.com one advantage i could see with bringing timbers under a roof is to get them out of the rain and sun, however i do agree that if you bring them into a house then a dehumidifier may be wise (the timbers will only smell nice if they don't mold) and yes, sealing the end grain is generally a good way to go.
If you have stored fresh wood in your basement before with success then the timbers may also do well.
