What is a potential downside of requiring a performance bond from a lessee?

Requiring a performance bond from a lessee can indeed deter some potential lessees from entering the lease agreement. A performance bond serves as a financial guarantee that the lessee will fulfill their obligations under the lease. For many businesses, particularly smaller companies or startups, the requirement of a bond can represent a significant upfront cost or involve a lengthy approval process. This could make the leasing arrangement less attractive compared to other options that do not have such financial barriers. As a result, businesses may choose to look elsewhere for lease opportunities that do not require additional financial scrutiny or commitment.

While other options such as increased administrative costs, potential limitations on profit margins, and complicating negotiations are valid concerns, they do not address the immediate impact of a performance bond on a lessee's willingness to engage in a lease. Therefore, the potential deterrent effect that a performance bond has on lessees is a critical consideration in the leasing process.