Americas Largest Landlord to Stop Using RealPage Rent-Setting Software, Makes Deal With DOJ

Published: Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 3:40 pm

Greystar to Halt Algorithmic Rent-Setting in Proposed Settlement

The Justice Department has reached a proposed settlement with Greystar, the nation's largest landlord, regarding allegations of anti-competitive practices in rent-setting. The agreement, which still requires judicial approval, would prohibit Greystar from using algorithmic software that relies on competitors' sensitive data to suggest rent prices.

The DOJ's action stems from concerns that Greystar, along with other landlords, may have colluded to inflate rents across the country. The department's investigation was spurred by a 2022 ProPublica investigation that highlighted the role of RealPage, a software provider, in assisting landlords in setting prices in a manner that legal experts suggested could resemble cartel-like behavior. The DOJ has also filed a lawsuit against RealPage.

The proposed settlement has garnered bipartisan support. Former Attorney General Pam Bondi, appointed during the Trump administration, praised the agreement, emphasizing the importance of competition in making housing affordable. Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat, also lauded the settlement, urging the DOJ to continue its investigation into anti-competitive practices in the apartment market.

Greystar, while not admitting wrongdoing, stated that it believes its use of RealPage's software complies with all applicable laws. The company has also reached an agreement in principle to settle litigation brought by a group of renters making similar claims. RealPage, for its part, has maintained that its technology is legal and pro-competitive, and has sought to dismiss the DOJ's suit.

The DOJ's actions against RealPage and its landlord customers signal a willingness to address antitrust concerns in the context of data-driven pricing. The settlement with Greystar also requires the company to cooperate with the DOJ's ongoing monopolization claims against RealPage.

BNN's Perspective:

This settlement is a positive step towards ensuring fair practices in the rental market. While the legal process is ongoing, the agreement sends a clear message that anti-competitive behavior, whether facilitated by traditional means or advanced algorithms, will not be tolerated. The focus on data privacy and fair competition is crucial for maintaining a healthy housing market.

Keywords: Greystar, RealPage, rent-setting, algorithm, Justice Department, DOJ, antitrust, settlement, landlords, housing, competition, price-fixing, anti-competitive, renters, software, ProPublica

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