I think that it should be normal practice for an agent to inform a buyer of any factors that could better advise them with respect to value and strategy.
Sometimes those factors include past listings.
Ergo, I think it important to mention past listings to a client.
Caveat: For many intelligent home buyers, adding information can confuse or muddy reasoning. Its not that the buyers are ill-informed or lack reasoning skills. It is the fact that a comparative lack of experience in this area may cause one to place disproportionately great amount of emphasis on less relevant criteria. It is for this reason, that adding potentially irrelevant data can be a disservice.
Here is an example: I recently had a client who is exceptionally skilled at his one-man retail business. He is very smart and very savvy. However, as a first time buyer, he kept wanting to focus on what the seller was “really after”. This is something that might be suited to his area of expertise but is not helpful when dealing with REO agents handling dozens of files who represent asset managers handling hundreds of files who contract with bank managers handling thousands of files. They want money and good terms. Mostly money. Also, he wanted to negotiate on small terms. It took me a while to realize that it was best to just not mention that the bank requires a specific title company or uses a specific form to disclose lead hazards. It just does not make sense to lose a house at 10% under market because the seller insists on First American instead of Chicago Title.
Similarly, sometimes a buyer can miss the forest (the bargain) for the trees (the previous months of listings). Sometimes agents owe it to their clients to take that into consideration. Agents really need to provide guidance and consultation along with the facts.
I apologize if that is not as black and white as what you might look for. However, I think it relevant to point out that looking out for your clients requires using your brain as well as just telling facts.
