Insurer-backed EasyKnock shuts down

Residential sale-leaseback platform EasyKnock has shut down its operations.

“After many years of serving consumers, EasyKnock has closed its doors,” a message on the company’s website states. “We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us to be part of the financial journey of so many. While EasyKnock may no longer be around, arrangements have been made to ensure continued services for our customers.”

Founded in 2016, EasyKnock’s business model allowed homeowners to sell their properties to the company but remain as renters while receiving cash for their financial needs. According to Crunchbase data, the startup raised ~$300 million in debt and ~$125 million in equity.

Earlier this year, EasyKnock announced $28 million in funding with participation from Northwestern Mutual Future Ventures. “Our mission at Northwestern Mutual Future Ventures is to invest in early-stage startups that are developing new financial products and solutions that address consumers’ evolving needs,” said Craig Schedler, Vice President – Venture and Corporate Development and Managing Director, Northwestern Mutual Future Ventures. “EasyKnock has demonstrated a unique approach to the FinTech space and we look forward to seeing how this new-to-market technology is received.”

According to reports, EasyKnock faces over two dozen lawsuits around the country and several investigations by state attorneys general.