Sinter-active yttria powders were prepared by a solution precipitation with using a self-decomposing precipitation agent NH2CONH2(urea). The cold-pressed powders can be sintered to full density and the microstructure of grains less than 200 nm at a temperature as low as 120$0^{circ}C$. The activity of the yttria powder has been controlled by varying nucleation conditions during precipitation and by minimizing formation of aggregates. The type of precursor is decisive in preparation of a sinter-active oxide powder, and urea is desirable as a precipitation agent for an active yttrium oxide powder.