There's literally no reason not to have an agent as the buyer. Especially if you're new and not sure about how everything should work. The seller's agent is there to look after the seller's interests, and they are being paid by the seller. If they can convince you to let them sit both sides of the transaction, they get the whole commission instead of only half. Technically, that at least gives you equal footing as a client and they're supposed to give you equal consideration. However, I really get the sense that they often still think of the seller as their client and you as just the buyer... plus, they're still incentivized to push for a higher sale price, because the more you pay, the more they make! Does that sound like a recipe for good faith assistance?
By contrast, if you get your own agent as a buyer, they get paid by the seller to represent you, and that agent is legally obligated to represent your best interests in every aspect of the deal.
I'm a Realtor in Alabama (got licensed to represent my own investment company) and when I'm shopping out of state, I always get a local buyer's agent at this point. I tried calling listing agents and got the same BS the average customer does. They blew smoke up my ass about their listings, tried to upsell me to more expensive ones, you name it. Too many shady fuckers in this business, so as has pretty much been said - shop around, get recommendations, and find someone who has treated your friends and family well, and interview them about how they can help you. Remember, until you sign an agency contract, there is no obligation.
I actually have more than one friend who's bought a home in Seattle in the last year or so... I could ask for recommendations if you're interested. The nearest market that I've been watching personally is Oak Harbor. Out of curiosity, where in Seattle can you have a condo for $150k? I might want one too........ hehe