The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against several landlords and property management companies, accusing them of colluding with RealPage, a technology firm that provides rental management services, to artificially inflate rental prices for apartments across the country. This landmark case accuses the companies involved of violating antitrust laws, as the DOJ claims that the landlords used RealPage’s software to coordinate their pricing strategies, ultimately harming tenants with inflated rent prices. The lawsuit highlights how this alleged pricing scheme has affected various markets, particularly in Massachusetts, where the attorney general announced additional involvement in the case. Attorney General Maura Healey stated, “This unlawful conduct has disrupted market dynamics and left many families struggling to afford rent.” The DOJ’s move comes amid rising concerns over the increasing cost of living and housing affordability that many Americans face today. RealPage has publicly denied the allegations, asserting that its software merely provides data and recommendations, and does not endorse or promote price-fixing practices. The implications of this lawsuit could reverberate across the rental market industry, as the DOJ aims to hold accountable those who engage in anti-competitive behavior. The legal battle is just beginning, with more details expected to emerge as the case progresses.
Justice Department Sues Landlords Over Allegations of Price Fixing with RealPage
