What is a key characteristic of a gross lease?

A gross lease is defined by the arrangement where the landlord covers most of the property's operating expenses, such as taxes, insurance, and maintenance, while the tenant typically pays a fixed rent amount. This arrangement simplifies budgeting for tenants, as their financial obligations are primarily limited to the rent itself.

The key characteristic of a gross lease, therefore, is that the landlord is responsible for most of the costs associated with maintaining the property. This can create a more predictable and stable rental situation for tenants, who do not have to worry about fluctuating operating costs. It contrasts with other lease types, where tenants might be responsible for additional expenses or variable costs.

In contrast, options suggesting that the tenant pays all operating expenses or that property taxes are not included do not align with the fundamental nature of a gross lease. Similarly, stating that a gross lease is always for a fixed term is not accurate, as lease terms can vary. Thus, the correct choice emphasizes the landlord's role in covering most property expenses, which is essential to understanding the gross lease structure.