My wife and I recently purchased a house in Marysville, WA in what is and has been the most competitive housing market in the USA. According to the Seattle Times the average Seattlr house is worth $757000.
We looked at 6 properties and finally purchased a 2013 house. The kicker was this house was only on the market for 6 hours and was followed with an all cash bid.
Some tips:
Visit all houses as soon as you can
The average house price in Seattle is $757000 so prepare to look north or south. Marysville, Puyallip, Kent, Federal Way, or Mt. Vernon.
Ensure your credit and downpayment are good. Work with your realtor daily.