You will not be comfortable enough to make an offer on a home until you have seen dozens of homes that are in your price range and have the features you need. Therefore, get out there and start seeing houses ASAP.
How can I make a strong offer?
These days you need to keep contingencies to a minimum. Don't forgoe the necessary ones like financing if you need to use financing to close the deal though, that is stupid and risky. However, do forgoe inspection contingencies and instead do a preinspection to learn about the homes condition BEFORE making an offer.
How competitive is the market?
Unfortunately, the market is extremely competitive and most homes in the DMV end up in bidding wars. Expect quality homes to go for above asking, but don't get discouraged. People who keep trying eventually win bids.