Seattle Council Bans Algorithmic Rent-Setting Software

Seattle's City Council unanimously voted to ban the use of algorithmic rent-setting software like RealPage, which critics argue enables landlords to collude and artificially raise rental prices. The legislation, introduced by Councilmember Cathy Moore, aims to curb predatory price-fixing practices and address the city's housing affordability crisis. Under the new law, landlords caught using such software could face fines of up to $7,500 per violation. Mayor Bruce Harrell is expected to sign the bill, which would take effect 30 days after approval. Seattle joins other cities such as San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, and Jersey City in outlawing these automated rent-setting tools. The action follows legal scrutiny from Washington's Attorney General, who alleges that RealPage's software fostered a landlord cartel driving rents to the top of the market.