Breaking Down Barriers: Attorney General Jeff Jackson Secures $7M Settlement with LivCor for Alleged Rent-Fixing Scheme

Attorney General Jeff Jackson is a champion of consumer protection and fairness in the housing market. His relentless efforts have led to the announcement of a major breakthrough in a long-standing case involving the alleged misuse of AI software by several major landlords in North Carolina, including LivCor, resulting in inflated rent prices for thousands of residents.

The multi-million-dollar settlement reached between LivCor and the North Carolina Attorney General's office marks a significant milestone in the battle against rent-fixing and the exploitation of vulnerable communities. This case is the latest development in a broader initiative to dismantle the rent-fixing scheme that had allowed landlords to use non-public data to unfairly hike rent prices.

As part of the settlement, LivCor, which controls approximately 3,500 apartments across North Carolina, has agreed to stop using non-public data from other landlords to set rents. This concession effectively shuts down the mechanism that enabled rent-fixing and ensures a level playing field for consumers.

The settlement highlights the importance of vigilance in protecting consumers from unfair business practices. As Attorney General Jackson explained, "What we've done is turn off this illegal method of raising rents that all of these landlords were using. This most recent settlement is going to make sure it can't be used for thousands of apartments across the state."

A notable figure in the case is RealPage, the AI software provider at the center of the controversy. Although LivCor has reached a settlement, the legal battle against RealPage and the remaining three landlords continues. Notable settlements have already been reached with Greystar and Cortland, the largest and second-largest landlords in the state.

The case has garnered attention from other states, with the Attorney General of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oregon, and Tennessee involved in the legal action. By working together, these states aim to dismantle the rent-fixing scheme and ensure that consumers have fair access to housing.

The outcome of this case sends a strong message: no one is above the law, and businesses engaging in exploitative practices will be held accountable. As the state continues to push for greater transparency and fairness in the housing market, this settlement marks an important step forward in safeguarding the rights of consumers and promoting a more equitable society.