Illinois Leasing Agent Practice Exam

What is an example of a violation of anti-trust laws?

1. Price fixing

2. Discrimination in housing

3. Failure to disclose property defects

4. Improper eviction procedures

The correct answer is: Price fixing

Price fixing is considered a violation of antitrust laws because it involves an agreement between competitors to set prices at a certain level rather than allowing market forces to dictate pricing. This practice restricts free competition and can lead to consumers paying higher prices than they would in a competitive marketplace. Antitrust laws aim to promote fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices that could harm consumers and the economy. In the context of real estate and leasing, when agents or companies collude to fix prices — for instance, agreeing to charge the same rental rates across multiple properties — they undermine the principles of competition and can harm renters by eliminating choices that would typically arise in a free market. This kind of behavior is closely monitored and prosecuted under antitrust regulations to ensure that market conditions remain fair and competitive.