DALLAS, TEXAS – Lawsuits filed against RealPage, a Texas-based company, have brought attention to the role of algorithms in the rental market. The company is being accused of facilitating a cartel among major property managers, leading to higher rents for tenants and increased profits for landlords who utilize RealPage’s software. RealPage, however, denies any wrongdoing.
The lawsuits have shed light on a new facet of cartel behavior, challenging conventional understanding of the concept. By allegedly creating a system that enables collusion among property managers, RealPage stands accused of manipulating prices and limiting competition within the rental market.
The details of the lawsuit reveal the alleged collusion between RealPage and property managers. The company’s software allegedly allows property managers to exchange information about rental prices, making it easier for them to coordinate their pricing strategies and avoid undercutting each other. This, in turn, leads to higher rents for tenants.
RealPage is one of the largest providers of property management software in the industry, serving over 12,000 property management companies. If the allegations are true, their practices could have a significant impact on rental prices across the country.
The lawsuits against RealPage highlight the growing concern about the influence of technology and algorithms on various industries, including housing. As algorithms become more prevalent in decision-making processes, questions arise about their potential to exacerbate existing inequalities and restrict competition.
While RealPage firmly denies any wrongdoing, the lawsuits against the company underscore the need for greater scrutiny and regulation of algorithmic systems in the rental market. As more cases like this emerge, policymakers and industry leaders may need to reassess the role of technology in shaping market dynamics and ensuring fair competition.
In summary, RealPage, a Texas-based company, is facing lawsuits accusing them of facilitating a cartel among property managers, leading to higher rental prices for tenants. The allegations shed light on the role of algorithms in shaping the rental market and challenge traditional notions of cartel behavior. As the lawsuits progress, the outcome could have implications for the regulation of technology and the promotion of fair competition within the industry.