What Does POA Mean in Property?

POA means "Price on Application". There is no asking price shown, and you have to contact the estate agent to find out what the seller wants for it.

It is not a sign the house is unaffordable, and it does not mean the price is negotiable either. It usually means one of three things: the seller wants privacy, the property is unusual enough that the agent would rather talk you through it, or the agent wants your details before parting with the number.

At a glance

POA means: Price on Application
Why it's used: Seller privacy; high-end or unique homes
What to do: Contact the agent for the price
In renting: Stands for Price Upon Application

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About the price

What it signals. Usually a discreet sale, an unusual property that's hard to price, or a high-value home where the owner would rather not advertise the figure. Occasionally it just means the seller hasn't settled on a price.
What to do. Ask. There is no obligation and no advantage to the agent in keeping it from a serious buyer — though be aware POA properties are often slower to sell precisely because buyers scroll past them.
Full guide to Price on Application →

About the status

About your offer

Terms as used in England and Wales. Scotland's system differs in important ways — offers are generally binding much earlier, and "offers over" is the norm rather than the exception. The "what it signals" notes are informed judgement about how these phrases are typically used, not rules: any individual agent may mean something slightly different by them, and it is always fair to ask.

Key Takeaways

The meaning of POA is 'Price on Application'. It conceals the property's asking price, requiring direct contact with the agent for details, creating exclusivity.
POA maintains seller privacy and suits unique or high-end properties, helping agents gauge interest and gather insights.
POA listings generate curiosity but can be challenging. Buyers may find it hard to assess affordability, leading to complex negotiations.
Buyers should research local market prices, contact the agent, arrange viewings, consider expert advice, and set a clear budget when dealing with POA listings.

What Does POA Mean In Property?

"POA" stands for Price on Application. It is a term used by estate agents to indicate that the asking price of a property is not publicly disclosed. Instead, interested buyers are required to contact the agent directly to ask about the price.

This can create an air of exclusivity around the property, as only serious buyers who are genuinely interested will make the effort to reach out and gather more information.

Why Do Estate Agents Use POA?

Estate agents may choose to use POA for various reasons. One common reason is to maintain privacy for the seller.

Some homeowners prefer to keep the asking price confidential, especially from neighbours, friends, or family members who may be curious about the value of their property. By using POA, the seller can control who has access to this information.

Additionally, properties listed as POA are often unique or high-end, where the price may be subjective or require negotiation. This allows estate agents to gauge buyer interest and evaluate potential offers before disclosing the price.

It also gives them an opportunity to gather valuable market insights and adjust the price accordingly.

What Does POA Mean When Buying a House?

When buying a house, POA (Price on Application) means that the seller has chosen not to disclose the asking price to the general public. Interested buyers must contact the estate agent directly to ask about the price.

This approach is often used for unique or high-end properties and allows the seller to maintain privacy and gauge buyer interest before disclosing the price.

How does a POA listing impact the house buying process?

On the buyer's side, a Price on Application listing can sometimes be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it may generate curiosity and create a sense of exclusivity. On the other hand, it can also be frustrating if you're unsure whether the property matches your budget.

However, without a disclosed price, buyers may find it difficult to determine whether the property matches their budget. This can lead to hesitation and missed opportunities if the price turns out to be unaffordable.

Additionally, the lack of a disclosed price can complicate the negotiation process. Buyers may feel uncertain about how much to offer or whether they are getting a fair deal.

It can also be time-consuming, as potential buyers need to contact the listing agent to enquire about the price, arrange viewings, and gather more information.

Tips for buyers navigating the POA listing process

Navigating the Price on Application listing process requires a strategic approach from buyers. Here are some tips to help you navigate the challenges and make the most of this listing type:

Research the market

Before enquiring about a POA listing, research the local property market to get an idea of the average prices in the area. This will help you determine whether the property is within your budget and whether it offers good value for money.

Contact the listing agent

Reach out to the listing agent to enquire about the price and request additional information. Be prepared with a list of questions to ensure you gather all the necessary details about the property.

Arrange viewings

If the property seems promising, schedule a viewing to assess its condition and suitability for your needs. This will give you a better understanding of the property's value and help you make an informed decision.

Seek professional advice

Consider consulting with an estate agent or property expert who can provide guidance throughout the process. They can help you assess the property's value, negotiate the price, and navigate any potential challenges.

Our guide on how to choose an estate agent is a useful starting point.

Set a budget

Determine your budget and stick to it. This will help you avoid wasting time on properties that are outside your price range. Be open to negotiation but ensure that the final price aligns with your financial capabilities.

Alternatives to POA listings for sellers

While a Price on Application listing can be a viable option for sellers, there are alternative listing strategies that may better suit their needs. Let's explore some alternatives to POA listings:

Fixed price listing

A fixed-price listing provides transparency to buyers by disclosing the price upfront. This can attract serious buyers who are actively searching for properties within a specific price range.

Fixed price listings eliminate the need for potential buyers to enquire about the price, streamlining the buying process.

Auction

An auction allows sellers to set a reserve price and let potential buyers compete against each other in bidding. This can create a sense of urgency and generate higher offers.

Auctions also provide transparency and allow buyers to assess the value of the property based on market demand.

Price range listing

A price range listing provides buyers with a range of prices rather than a fixed price. This can attract a wider range of potential buyers, accommodating different budgets and preferences.

Price range listings provide transparency while allowing for negotiation within the specified range.

Expressions of interest

With an expressions of interest listing, sellers invite potential buyers to submit their offers or expressions of interest within a specified timeframe. This allows sellers to assess the level of interest and negotiate the price based on the offers received.

Expressions of interest listings provide transparency while allowing for negotiation and flexibility.

Other property pricing terms:

Offers Over: encouraging only offers over a certain level.
Offers in Excess Of: encouraging only offers over a certain level.
Offers in Region Of: encouraging offers in and around a certain level.
Sold STC: an offer has been accepted and the sale awaits exchange of contracts.

What is a POA in Renting?

In renting, "POA" stands for "Price Upon Application." It means that the rental price for a property is not publicly disclosed, and prospective tenants must submit their rent offers directly to the landlord or agent for consideration and negotiation.

Frequently asked questions

What does POA mean in property?

Price on application. The seller has not published an asking price, so you have to contact the agent to find out what they want for it. It is a marketing choice rather than a legal status, and it carries no obligation on either side.

Why would a seller use POA?

Usually privacy, uncertainty or positioning. High-value sellers may not want the price public; sellers unsure of value may want to gauge interest first; and some agents use it to create an impression of exclusivity or to force a conversation with every enquirer.

Is POA a bad sign?

Not inherently, but it costs you time. The practical downside is that the property will not appear correctly in portal price filters, so it can sit unseen by the buyers most likely to want it — which is why some POA listings linger.

How do I find out the price of a POA property?

Ask the agent directly. They will normally give you a figure or a range straight away. If they will not, ask what the seller is hoping to achieve, and check the property's sold price history and comparable local sales so you have your own view before they anchor you.

Do I have to prove I can afford it before they tell me the price?

Agents often ask about your position or funding before disclosing. You are not obliged to share your finances to be told a price, though agents are required to verify proof of funds before a sale progresses. It is reasonable to give a general answer and ask for the price first.

Is POA the same as offers over or guide price?

No. Offers over sets a floor you are expected to exceed, and a guide price indicates the range the seller expects. POA publishes nothing at all, which is what makes it harder to judge.

Offers in region of (OIRO) — when the seller is inviting negotiation
What is a low-ball offer? — how far under asking is too far
How long does a house viewing take? — and what to do with the time