Can I buy apps from the play store without having an Android phone? How can I buy apps from the play store with only a google account and no phone? Planning to buy the phone next week, but would like to grab the sale prices for various apps before they expire.
Generally, the answer is No. But there is a way to buy the apps first. Find a friend who is willing to let you add your account to his/her phone, then you can buy the apps under your own account.

Edit: Here's an article I just came across.