What constitutes an absolute net lease?

An absolute net lease is characterized by the requirement that the lessee covers all property-related expenses. This type of lease places the full financial responsibility for the property squarely on the lessee, meaning they must pay not only for the rent but also for all operating expenses associated with the property. These expenses typically include property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and repairs, creating a situation where the lessor has minimal or no financial obligations related to the property.

In contrast, other options present different scenarios that do not align with the definition of an absolute net lease. For example, a lease in which the lessor pays all operational costs would not be considered a net lease, as the lessor retains responsibility for major expenses. Similarly, if a lease has variable payment structures, it deviates from the predictability and fixed obligations often found in net leases. Lastly, sharing common area maintenance costs suggests a level of responsibility retained by the lessor, which is contrary to the principles of an absolute net lease where the lessee bears all costs independently. Therefore, the definition provided in the chosen answer accurately encapsulates the nature of an absolute net lease.