Since I don't know what your background is, I'm going to assume you do not have any special expertise that would enable you to determine the in-depth condition of the components of a home. Therefore, I highly recommend a competent licensed general inspector as well as a pest inspection. The only time I've purchased (or allowed a client to purchase) without inspections was when major remodeling was planned AND the buyer was either a contractor or an architect (me) AND we wanted to write an offer without an option period to strengthen our negotiating power. A good inspector is worth every penny you pay, and then some.
As far as buying without a real estate agent, again, it depends on your own expertise, the amount of time you have available to manage the transition, and the quality of the agents you have available to you. Most buyers and sellers have neither the expertise or time to manage a sale or purchase transaction, nor do they have the ability to optimize the profit or savings from the sale or purchase, because they are too emotionally involved. And, most buyers and sellers do have access to excellent agents - just interview a few, check references and I'm sure you'll come out very glad you had their expert guidance.
PS One other value of an inspector's report is that it verifies which appliances, units, etc., are in working condition prior to closing, so that if your AC goes out a week after closing, your home warranty company will still cover it (I've used it in Texas specifically for this purpose to great success.)

Congratulations for putting yourself in a postion to buy with cash. These are tough times and that says to all of us that you have done many things right!

You should always get a home inspection done. ALWAYS! There could be items in need of repair that you can't see at a glance like the A/C, the septic or sewer functionality, and other very expensive items. Do not trust a home that looks good is good! Protect yourself and your purchase! Besides, if something is in need of repair, you will have a licensed inspector report to help you negotiate repairs or price off your home. That 350-$400 could save you from buying a problematic property or a property that you could have had repaired by the seller!

Regarding having a Realtor, it is certainly not required. If you are seasoned in buying and selling real estate in Texas, you may do fine. However, one of the ways you have put yourself in position to have cash is by making informed choices. A buyer's agent can advise you on negotiating points and power you have with cash. They can give you solds data for the last few months in the neighborhood where you are considering buying. What good is cash if you overpay? When my clients are offering cash, it is a blast because they have more bargaining power that someone who is making an offer without a down payment. Both could sell well, but you are in a great position to enjoy even a little more savings with the right person representing your financial interests!

Let us know how it goes for you!

Also have a home inspected including new construction.

YES realtor never purchase a home unless you are represented it all involves contracts, how to's and etc.

National Featured Realtor and Consultant, Texas Mortgage Loan Officer, Credit Repair Lecturer
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Lynn911

No. Of course not.

However....

Bill is absolutely right. The only thing that paying cash does for you is eliminates your need to obtain financing. You still will benefit just as much as anyone else from the use of a Realtor, a home inspector, and so on. None of that changes.

So, no, you don't need a Realtor or a home inspection. You don't need one if you're financing either. However, you'd be very, very smart to have both.

Debbie,
A good agent can take you through all your choices, point out resale issues, pull comparables, make recommendations on which inspections are necessary or desirable, write the contract to protect you and coordinate the closing of the property, typically at no cost to you.
You shuld always use a good inspector to ensure that the home doesn't have any problems. Even new construction can be surprisingly flawed at times!

Good luck with your purchase!

The fact that you are paying cash for a home only eliminated the need for financial arrangements involved with the transaction. All other responsibilities and challenges remain in place......it is strongly recommended that you employ the services of a real estate professional to purchase your home.

Additionally, the fee for professional services(commission) associated with the purchase of the home are paid by the "seller" not the buyer. These services cost you nothing.

Best wishes with your search.

The Eckler Team

ABSOLUTELY! Having cash only gives you the option of not having to apply to a bank or mortg. co for the funds.

Joyce Begg
Weidel.com/Joyce.Begg