Hayward, WI Real Estate

 Hayward Homes For Sale

Beautiful properties in Hayward

Hayward is a charming town in Northwest WI with a year-round population of just under 3,000 people. This number balloons significantly in the summer months, when people with vacation homes temporarily relocate to the Hayward area. Despite the increase in population, Hayward maintains its cozy charm while still providing big-city conveniences.

Hayward is a great place that offers a ton more than you might expect from such a small town! It’s no surprise that in recent years, the demand for Hayward real estate has soared. No matter how many beds, baths, or sqft a property has, it’s getting snapped up quickly. And there’s no surprise there: permanent residents enjoy a strong educational system, vibrant community life, and a lively business district. 

Whether you’re looking to become a permanent resident, a weekend warrior, invest in a lakefront vacation home, or relocate from the city, Hayward attracts people of all ages and lifestyles. In addition to a robust community spirit, Hayward is also close to expansive wildlife and recreation areas and acres of lakes. It’s not hard to see why property for sale in Hayward, WI, is so desirable! 

Why live in Hayward, Wisconsin?

The Hayward area is a vibrant place to live all year round, from the depths of winter to the peak of summer. There’s an eclectic commercial district, with shops featuring Native American arts and crafts, flea market treasures, fine jewelry, and so much more. And besides this bustling small-town atmosphere with restaurants, services, and attractions galore, there’s plenty to do outside too. 

Both families and sportspeople will love the gorgeous lakes, Chequamegon National Forest, all-purpose trails, and countless other outdoor activities WI has to offer. The opportunities for outdoor fun are endless, which is why so many people are looking toward Hayward when it comes to finding a second home or relocating to a town that moves at a more relaxed pace. 

Hayward is also well-known for being the home of North America’s largest Honor the Earth Pow Wow, the internationally-renowned American Birkebeiner cross-country ski race, the Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival, and the perennial favorite: the Annual Lumberjack World Championships. 

Hayward, WI, and the surrounding areas truly have it all, making it a great place to spend some (or all!) of your time. No matter what type of home for sale you’re looking for, be it a tinyhouse with less than 500 sqft or an expansive lot for a custom house with beds and baths for all, Hayward is a place that makes you feel right at home — especially on the water.

The many sensational lakes of Hayward are a draw to sportspeople of all types, whether your forte is wakeboarding or walleye fishing. Here are just a few of the lakes that fall into Northwest Wisconsin Realty’s territory:

• Chippewa Flowage, or “The Big Chip”

The Chippewa Flowage is the state’s third-largest lake. It features 140+ islands, bays, points, channels, and wilderness waters. The Big Chip is for you if you’re looking for giant Musky, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, and more. There are 15,000 acres of water and 233 miles of shoreline, but limited private lands. Houses for sale on the Chippewa Flowage are few and far between, so it’s important to snap them up quickly before it sells! 

• Grindstone Lake

Grindstone Lake is where it’s at if you’re into watersports. All types of boats are allowed on this lake, so it’s popular with those who are looking for high-octane fun like waterskiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, kneeboarding, and more. It’s also a great place for relaxed (non-motorized) fun on the water as well, and those looking to kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, swim, or simply relax will find Grindstone’s 3,100+ acres just as fun as the thrill-seekers. This is a great place to look for Hayward land for sale. 

• Long Lake

Known as the “Walleye Capital of Wisconsin”, Long Lake is a body of water that’s in high demand. Thankfully, with 3300 acres of water and over 35 miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of room for fun-seekers of all types. Anglers, watersports enthusiasts, swimmers, and floaters coexist on this beautiful lake. Long Lake is a prime location if you are looking for land for sale to build a new home from scratch, but there are also often places for sale both near and on the waterfront. 

• Lac Courte Oreilles Lake

With more than 5,000 acres of water, Lac Courte Oreilles is the largest natural lake in Sawyer County, WI. It offers full recreation opportunities (motorized and non-motorized) and is also a great fishing spot. Anglers looking for Musky, Northern Pike, Panfish, and more won’t be disappointed by the haul. Rustic cabins, single-family homes, and cozy cabins in the woods are all options for those seeking homes for sale near Lac Courte Oreilles Lake, WI. 

• Callahan Lake 

Settled in 1914 by legendary lumberjack Bill Streveas, Callahan Lake is part of a small chain of lakes that also includes Mud and Reed Lakes. It’s particularly popular with those seeking a quiet experience with a wilderness atmosphere. Anglers are drawn to this lake by the plentiful Panfish, Largemouth Bass, and Walleye. There are frequently both homes and lots for sale on Callahan Lake, so those looking for a more relaxed lakeside experience should keep an eye out for new listings.

Is buying realty in Hayward worth it?

When you’re buying a lakefront property for sale in Hayward, there are a variety of factors to consider. One of the most important is the cost. While working with an experienced real estate agent can save you a boatload of money, you also need to consider the cost of upkeep. 

For example, will you be putting the dock in and out yourself, or will you be paying someone else to do it? Will you be occupying your Hayward home year-round, or will you need a caretaker service to come by during the winter? 

Other cost factors include additional flood insurance, maintenance, and if this is a second home, the potential of a larger minimum down payment. Plus, if you’re buying a vacation property, don’t forget to factor in the fun stuff: After all, what good is a vacation home without all of the trimmings? 

When it comes down to brass tacks, the majority of people who buy vacation homes in WI are pleased with their purchase. And why wouldn’t they be? A dedicated home base for you and your family and friends to enjoy all year round is an investment you won’t regret. 

Owning lakefront Hayward, WI, real estate

When you’re considering looking for a lake home for sale, there are some special maintenance issues you’re going to want to be sure to take care of. For example, you need to keep a special eye out for sand — both indoors and out. Sand is abrasive, and it can harm floors and decks quickly. 

Properties for sale located on or near lakes also tend to have moister air than the average building. This means that you need to look out for mold and mildew, both of which can sicken you and your family and ruin a perfectly good home. One great tip is to run a dehumidifier and make sure that your home has proper ventilation. In addition to keeping your home mold- and mildew-free, keeping humidity under control will also help you avoid unpleasant smells.

While you might consider yourself a consummate do-it-yourselfer, there are times when you’d do well to enlist the help of a maintenance pro. Your WI Realtor should be able to help you find a trustworthy expert who specializes in waterfront property maintenance and can save you both time and effort.

Finding great homes for sale in Hayward

When you’re looking for homes for sale in Northwest Wisconsin (NWWI) towns like Hayward, your first stop will probably be the internet. Heck, that might be where you found us. And while the web is a great resource as you begin your search, you’ll definitely want to work with a professional real estate agent. For one, a WI Realtor has access to the MLS system, a real estate agent-exclusive database that provides you with more options for listed properties.

But that’s just one reason why choosing to work with a real estate agent is one of the best decisions you can make when it comes to finding a home for sale in the Hayward area, though. Here are a few more reasons why we think you’ll agree that it’s in your best interest to find a great Hayward Realtor:

The perks of working with a Northwest Wisconsin real estate agency

Working with an agent is a must when it comes to considering property for sale, especially when it comes to vacation homes. Having a WI Realtor who really understands what you want out of your new home is a massive asset. You might not be quite as familiar with the area, for example, and may have fewer opportunities to attend an open house. Working with a real estate agent can streamline your viewing schedule and save you time by letting you view only listed properties that suit your style. 

Real estate agents have access to information on houses for sale that’s not always publicly available too. If you would like more information on any particular homes for sale, just request information on the listing details page of the property. We can provide you with information that’s not available to the public, including disclosures, past sales history, dates and prices of the properties recently sold nearby, and more. 

Having an experienced WI real estate agent in the mix is also a great way to ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible. A great agent knows how to negotiate so you get the best price possible whether you’re selling or buying. And you really can’t underestimate the value of experience: Having an agent who’s acting in your best interest review the contracts can help to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your purchase. The peace of mind you’ll have knowing that your paperwork is complete, correct, and legally binding is priceless.

A seasoned WI Realtor can keep supporting you after the sale too. Over the years, agents build up a long list of reliable contractors, inspectors, and other companies that provide home services. A local Realtor can be a great resource, especially if you are purchasing vacation property or are searching for a home for sale from afar. 

When you’re looking for a real estate agency, it pays to do a little research. Working with a Realtor who’s a member of the National Association of Realtors is a great place to start. And of course, you need an agent who’s licensed in WI. 

Look for a real estate agency that emphasizes communication between buyer and agent! In this competitive market, it’s essential to stay on top of the newest listings in WI so you can alert your Realtor and make them aware of anything you would like to see. Buying a property is a two-way street, and a good agent recognizes and encourages this — involved buyers are much more likely to be happy with their purchase.

You’ll also want to talk to people who have worked with the real estate agency you’re considering. Whether the sale was big or small, a lot or a lake home, the way an agent treats each listing matters. Every sale should be handled with care and courtesy. After all, buying a new property is an intensely personal purchase. You should always be treated with respect, before, during, and after the sale.

At Northwest Wisconsin Realty, we’re aces at all of the above — and more. Not only do we have stellar references and decades of experience, but we’ve also got the local knowledge that you need when you’re on the hunt for a new home. We’re no city slickers — we’re your (future) neighbors! We know the area inside and out, so whether you’re looking for a little fishing shack to call your own or a luxury lakefront property, we’ll know right where to take you. 

Hayward real estate you’ll love

When you work with the Northwest Wisconsin Realty team, you can feel confident that we’re dedicated to finding you the Hayward home of your dreams. Working with a Realtor who knows how to find homes for sale that meet all of your needs makes the process of buying a home effortless. Whether you’re buying or selling — or both — we aim to make your experience as pleasant as the hours you’re about to while away on the lake. 

If you’re looking for Hayward properties for sale, the Northwest Wisconsin Realty team is here to serve you. We’re based in Hayward, WI, and the surrounding area, so we’re ready to help you find the right fit for your family. Let’s have a chat about what you’re looking for in Hayward! And, if you haven’t already, be sure to register for our email list so that you can receive alerts whenever a new Hayward listing comes onto the market.

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