The RealPage Lawsuit

A Question of Fairness in the Age of AI-Driven Pricing

In August 2024, the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against RealPage and then subsequently multiple large property management companies, alleging that its algorithmic pricing system has harmed millions of American renters by facilitating anti-competitive practices. The suit claims that RealPage’s software allows landlords to coordinate rent prices, potentially leading to artificially inflated rates that are beyond what renters can reasonably afford.

This raises an important question: In an era where listings are online and AI tools are widely accessible, is it fair—or even ethical—to criminalize advanced market analysis?

Here at ReLISTO, we utilize analytical tools to evaluate the strength of a property’s pricing before we even schedule the first showing. These tools give us immediate and accurate insights into market interest, allowing us to assess the strength of our bargaining position if someone wishes to negotiate. It’s a modern, data-driven approach that replaces guesswork with informed decision-making.

Yet, we wonder: Could tools and strategies like ours also be impacted by this lawsuit? If so, would that hinder innovation and the ability to price properties efficiently and competitively?

For context, RealPage’s platform aggregates rental market data and uses it to recommend pricing strategies for landlords. Critics argue that this goes beyond simple market analysis, crossing into price-fixing territory when landlords collectively rely on the same data and recommendations. However, tools like Zillow also use AI to analyze market trends and offer property value estimates, both for buying and renting. These tools empower individual users—whether homeowners or landlords—to make informed decisions about pricing.

At ReLISTO, we believe everyone should have the opportunity and ability to find rental housing that fits their budget. That’s why we think it’s important to go back to the root of the problem: the lack of housing. Many communities resist the construction of new homes and apartments, particularly those that cater to a diverse range of needs and budgets. This resistance perpetuates the housing shortage, driving up costs and reducing options for renters.

If we encouraged the building of more homes and apartments of all sizes, we could alleviate this issue. An increased housing supply would naturally lead to more competitive pricing, reducing the need for landlords to rely so heavily on tools to maintain their market positions.

The RealPage case may set an important precedent for how AI-driven market tools are regulated. But while this debate unfolds, let’s not lose sight of the bigger picture. Tackling the housing crisis at its core—by increasing supply—could eliminate many of these concerns altogether.

How to Professionally Respond to Meeting Time Requests: An Insight from ReLISTO

Our success at ReLISTO is built on a high level of professionalism and commitment to landlords. As our client base expands, we’re on the lookout for property managers, real estate assistants, and top-notch leasing agents who can embody our values. This process has inspired us to share how we expect our team to handle scheduling, a standard yet significant question often encountered on job platforms such as LinkedIn

When as a job applicant, a leasing agent, or a property manager you are asked for three available meeting times, it’s crucial to respond with thoughtfulness and precision. Here’s a template that reflects these qualities:

“Thank you for reaching out. I am available to meet at the following times:

[Date and Time, e.g., Monday, August 15th at 10:00 AM]
[Date and Time, e.g., Tuesday, August 16th at 2:00 PM]
[Date and Time, e.g., Wednesday, August 17th at 4:00 PM]

Please let me know which time works best for you, or if you have other preferences. Looking forward to our meeting!”

While “anytime” might seem accommodating, it can lead to a lack of specificity, a perceived lack of commitment, scheduling conflicts, or imbalances in power dynamics. At ReLISTO, we value clarity, commitment, and confidence – attributes that resonate with our mission to care for landlords, properties, and residents.

Professional scheduling is more than a matter of convenience; it’s a reflection of character, responsibility, and attention to detail. Through this blog post, ReLISTO aims to equip not only potential team members but also anyone navigating the professional landscape with the skills to handle scheduling with grace. Whether you’re embarking on a job search, preparing for an interview, or striving to excel in your current role, these insights can set you apart. We invite you to explore opportunities with ReLISTO, where our culture of excellence translates into personal and professional growth. Visit our Careers page to learn more and become part of a leasing and management team that cares about more than just property – we care about people.

Positivity- Unlocking the Potential of Your Investment

At ReLISTO, we understand that your property is more than just a piece of real estate; it’s a valuable investment. Our team is dedicated to maximizing the potential of your assets, aligning our services with your goals, and taking a proactive approach to growth.

One of the key elements of our success is our commitment to positive thinking and constructive communication. We’ve cultivated a comprehensive list of language transformations that our teams are trained and coached on so they may effectively employ them in their day-to-day interactions with landlords, residents, and vendor partners. By carefully selecting words that reflect opportunities rather than challenges, we ensure that our mindset is aligned with solution-driven strategies, from representing a property’s unique character to handling tenant relations and maintenance.

Here’s a glimpse of how we transform our language to reflect our mindset:

Instead of calling a property “cheap,” we highlight its “affordability.”
We don’t see spaces as “cramped;” we see them as “efficient.”
When addressing maintenance, we don’t talk about “fixing;” we focus on “improving.”
A “problematic tenant” becomes a “challenging situation” that we’re prepared to handle.
Rather than worrying about “declining value,” we identify the “opportunity for enhancement.”

At ReLISTO, we’re not hired just to maintain your property; we’re here to elevate it. Our positive approach extends from our communication with you to our interaction with tenants and our management of every detail. If you’re ready to discover how we can contribute to your investment, let’s schedule a time to discuss our leasing and management services designed for success.