San Antonio, November 26, 2025
RealPage Inc., a rent-pricing software provider, has settled with federal prosecutors to address claims of algorithmic collusion among landlords, resulting in increased rent prices. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) prohibited the company from using real-time confidential data for pricing recommendations, allowing only nonpublic data over a year old. RealPage denies wrongdoing and will not pay damages. This settlement is seen as a step towards restoring competition in housing markets while raising discussions about the regulation of technology in pricing practices.
San Antonio, Texas
RealPage Inc., a Texas-based rent-pricing software company, has agreed to a settlement with federal prosecutors to address allegations of facilitating “algorithmic collusion” among landlords, leading to inflated rental prices for tenants.
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) initiated a yearlong antitrust investigation into RealPage, asserting that its software enabled landlords to coordinate rental prices, effectively turning competitive markets into coordinated pricing systems. Under the terms of the settlement, RealPage is prohibited from using real-time confidential data for rental price recommendations; only nonpublic data that is at least one year old can be utilized. Notably, RealPage does not admit to any wrongdoing and will not pay damages. The settlement is pending judicial approval.
RealPage’s software provides daily pricing recommendations to landlords and their employees nationwide. While landlords are not obligated to follow these suggestions, critics argue that the software’s access to extensive confidential data allows landlords to set higher rents. DOJ antitrust chief Gail Slater emphasized that the settlement aims to restore competition in local housing markets, ensuring that rents are determined by market forces rather than coordinated algorithms.
The Broader Context of Rent Pricing Software
RealPage’s attorney stated that the company is pleased to have worked with the DOJ to settle the matter. He contended that the software’s use of aggregated and anonymized nonpublic data has historically led to lower rents and reduced vacancies. However, some observers view the settlement as a missed opportunity to address broader concerns about algorithmic price-fixing across various industries. This reflects a growing awareness of how technology can influence market dynamics, prompting discussions about the need for careful regulation in this rapidly evolving field.
Recent Developments in the Industry
In recent months, over two dozen property management companies have reached settlements over their use of RealPage’s software. Notably, Greystar, the nation’s largest landlord, agreed to pay $50 million to settle a class-action lawsuit and $7 million to settle a separate lawsuit filed by nine states. Additionally, the governors of California and New York have signed laws to regulate rent-setting software, and several cities, including Philadelphia and Seattle, have enacted ordinances against such practices. Ten states—California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington—had joined the DOJ’s antitrust lawsuit but are not part of this settlement, allowing them to pursue the case independently in court.
Implications of the Settlement
The settlement between RealPage and the DOJ is crucial as it aims to restore competition in local housing markets, ensuring that rents are determined by market forces rather than coordinated algorithms. It sets a significant precedent for regulating rent-setting software to prevent potential price-fixing practices that can harm tenants across the country. Such measures support the notion that market-driven solutions foster a healthier economy, and they reaffirm the importance of maintaining competitive dynamics in housing.
What to Watch Moving Forward
The ongoing conversation about algorithmic pricing in real estate highlights the need for continuous scrutiny and oversight to balance innovation with tenant protection. As states and cities take steps to implement regulatory measures, the impact on housing affordability and market health will be closely monitored. Stakeholders in the housing sector, including landlords and software providers, will need to adapt to comply with emerging regulations while ensuring fair practices for tenants.
Conclusion
The agreement between RealPage and federal authorities marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of technology and housing economics. As the San Antonio TX community navigates through these changes, supporting local businesses and advocating for fair market practices can contribute positively to the overall economic environment. Engaging in the local dialogue about housing policies and their implications will empower residents and foster a vibrant, competitive marketplace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the settlement between RealPage Inc. and federal prosecutors about?
The settlement addresses allegations that RealPage’s software facilitated “algorithmic collusion” among landlords, leading to inflated rental prices for tenants. Under the terms, RealPage is prohibited from using real-time confidential data for rental price recommendations; only nonpublic data that is at least one year old can be utilized. Notably, RealPage does not admit to any wrongdoing and will not pay damages. The settlement is pending judicial approval.
What does RealPage’s software do?
RealPage’s software provides daily pricing recommendations to landlords and their employees nationwide. While landlords are not obligated to follow these suggestions, critics argue that the software’s access to extensive confidential data allows landlords to set higher rents.
What are the implications of this settlement?
The settlement aims to restore competition in local housing markets, ensuring that rents are determined by market forces rather than coordinated algorithms. It also sets a precedent for regulating rent-setting software to prevent potential price-fixing practices.
Have other property management companies faced similar issues?
Yes, over two dozen property management companies have reached settlements over their use of RealPage’s software. Notably, Greystar, the nation’s largest landlord, agreed to pay $50 million to settle a class-action lawsuit and $7 million to settle a separate lawsuit filed by nine states.
Which states are involved in this settlement?
The settlement involves the U.S. Department of Justice and RealPage Inc. Ten states—California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington—had joined the DOJ’s antitrust lawsuit but are not part of this settlement, allowing them to pursue the case independently in court.
Key Features of the Settlement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Prohibited Data Use | RealPage is prohibited from using real-time confidential data for rental price recommendations; only nonpublic data that is at least one year old can be utilized. |
| Admission of Wrongdoing | RealPage does not admit to any wrongdoing and will not pay damages. |
| Settlement Approval | The settlement is pending judicial approval. |
| State Involvement | Ten states—California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington—had joined the DOJ’s antitrust lawsuit but are not part of this settlement, allowing them to pursue the case independently in court. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Antonio Landlords Face Antitrust Allegations Over Rent Fixing
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
