Wis. Stat. § 842.07
On default and proof or after trial of issues, the court shall by findings of fact and conclusions of law determine the rights of the parties. If the basis for partition is clear, the court may enter judgment partitioning the interests. If the basis for partition is not clear, the court shall appoint a referee to report either a basis for partition, or the conclusion that partition is prejudicial to the parties.
Wis. Stat. § 842.07
The homestead exemption may arise in a partition action. Reckner v. Reckner, 105 Wis. 2d 425, 314 N.W.2d 159 (Ct. App. 1981). If the court's findings and conclusions indicate as a matter of law that any partition would be prejudicial, the court need not appoint a referee and may order a sale under s. 842.17(1). LaRene v. LaRene, 133 Wis. 2d 115, 394 N.W.2d 742 (Ct. App. 1986).