New York City renters sue real estate giant, saying StreetEasy listing pullback inflated rents

Two New York City renters filed a federal lawsuit in Manhattan accusing Compass of inflating rents by pulling listings from StreetEasy, a major rental platform owned by Zillow. The filing, reported by Courthouse News Service, frames the case as an antitrust dispute and targets Compass’ approach to private exclusive listings and the removal of apartments from StreetEasy. Plaintiff Charles Lieberman argues that reducing visible inventory limits renters’ ability to compare prices, avoid broker fees, and identify when an apartment is overpriced. The complaint also alleges that by 2025 Compass controlled more than 80% of Manhattan rental listings, a claim not yet proven in court. Lieberman says he paid over $800 above market for a Manhattan one-bedroom after listings dropped. Compass and Zillow did not immediately comment.