DOJ Sues RealPage Over Antitrust Violations

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed an antitrust lawsuit against RealPage, alleging that its rental pricing algorithm enables landlords to collude and raise rents unlawfully, undermining competition. The lawsuit, joined by attorneys general from eight states including California, contends that RealPage's software allows landlords to share sensitive data and set inflated rent levels, effectively replacing competition with coordination. Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized that this practice contributes to the rising costs of rent, stating that Americans should not be forced to pay higher rents due to corporate schemes. RealPage has denied the allegations, asserting that its software promotes a more efficient rental market and that landlords are free to disregard its pricing suggestions. This case is part of a broader push by the Biden administration to enforce antitrust laws against perceived monopolistic practices in various industries. The lawsuit reflects an increasing scrutiny of how technology can distort traditional market dynamics.