Real Estate Definitions › Commercial Real Estate

Gross Lease vs. Net Lease

Outland and Associates Real EstateJames Outland, Broker AssociateDRE #01314390

What is Gross Lease vs. Net Lease?

In a gross lease the tenant pays one flat rent and the landlord covers the property's operating expenses; in a net lease the tenant pays base rent plus some or all of those expenses (taxes, insurance, maintenance). 'Modified gross' falls in between, splitting costs. Knowing which structure applies is essential to comparing the true cost of commercial space.

Example: One office quotes $30/sq ft gross (all-in), while another quotes $24/sq ft net plus expenses — once costs are added, the net lease may actually cost more.

Important Disclaimer

This definition is provided for general educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Real estate laws and lending rules change and vary by situation. Before acting, consult a licensed attorney, CPA, lender, or other qualified professional in the State of California regarding your specific circumstances.

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