Dickson keeps door open to more merger discussion

Dickson Realty likely has more mergers in its future, but acquisitions aren't the primary growth strategy for the Reno-based company.

The company last week closed on its merger with Lake Tahoe Distinctive Properties and began rebranding the Incline Village operation as a Dickson Realty office.

Nancy Fennell, broker/owner and president of Dickson Realty, said the company is in talks concerning other business combinations ranging from mergers to strategic partnerships.

"We're looking at other markets," she said.

But Dickson, the largest real estate firm in northern Nevada with 370 agents, also may grow organically into new markets.

"We look at the market and what makes sense strategically," Fennell said.

Founded in 1973, Dickson has undertaken three mergers in its 33-year history. It acquired Incline Properties in 2001 and merged with McCall Realty of Carson City and South Lake Tahoe in early 2005 before merging with Lake Tahoe Distinctive Properties.

With the most recent merger, Dickson now has three offices in Incline Village, including the location at 930 Tahoe Blvd. occupied by Lake Tahoe Distinctive Properties and its 12 agents.

Fennell said the company is developing a long-term plan for space in Incline Village. In the meantime, it will keep all three offices open.

Lake Tahoe Distinctive Properties, owned by real estate broker Victor Lockhart, has specialized in lakefront properties at Lake Tahoe.

Lockhart said the merger provides greater marketing, education and back-office support for the company's agents.