The best way is to gain an understanding of how multiple offers work and how they benefit the seller. You just have to determine how badly do you want this particular home. If you want to compete in a multiple offer situation learn more about what you will need to know. Hot real estate markets bring out the worst in everyone. Sellers become greedy and demanding.
Buyers become desperate, frustrated and disillusioned.
And real estate agents get caught in the middle as they try to negotiate purchase contracts that are acceptable to both sides of the transaction. It's not uncommon for prospective buyers to find themselves in a bidding war over a house. Overpaying will come back to haunt you later in low equity coupled with fewer selling and repurchasing options. The answer depends on your preferences. If you talk to homebuilders, you'll get a pitch for a new home.