Welcome to The Loading Dock - your source for industrial real estate insights, market trends and real-world tenant strategies in Reno, NV and beyond.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Industrial Real Estate Lingo: What It All Really Means

Industrial real estate comes with a lot of technical language - some of it useful, some of it just confusing. Whether you're searching for your first warehouse or expanding into a larger space, knowing the difference between terms like “NNN,” “clear height,” or “triple basin interceptor” can save you time, money and frustration. In this post, we break down some of the most common (and often misunderstood) phrases you’ll see on flyers, listings and leases, so you can make informed decisions without second-guessing what you're reading.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Tariffs, Uncertainty and Industrial Real Estate: How Import-Driven Tenants Can Plan Ahead

Tariffs and trade policy flip-flops are adding unexpected costs and complexity for import-dependent industrial users—impacting pricing, inventory strategy and facility needs. In this post, we explore how smart real estate planning, like flexible lease terms, location strategy near ports and rail, dual sourcing and adjustable inventory models, can help tenants stay nimble and resilient. Whether you're considering expansion or renegotiating a lease, discover practical steps to ensure your real estate strategy supports long-term growth amid uncertainty in Northern Nevada and beyond.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Broker vs. Google: Who Really Knows the Market

Google is a great place to start your industrial space search—but it’s not where your deal should end. This blog explores what online listings miss, and why an experienced broker gives you a clearer path to the right property, better lease terms and off-market opportunities. If you’re relying on Google to make multi-year real estate decisions, read this first.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Industrial Property Comparisons that Actually Make Sense

Finding the right industrial space takes more than a listings search. Our side-by-side property recap helps you compare key details—like clear height, dock doors, power, and rent structure—so you can make faster, smarter decisions.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Industrial Sprinkler Systems: What Tenants Need to Know

When it comes to industrial real estate, fire protection isn’t one-size-fits-all. In this post, we break down the differences between ESFR, conventional and in-rack sprinkler systems - and why your storage height, product type and racking layout should drive the fire system conversation.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

3PL vs. Self-Managed Warehousing: What’s Right for Your Business?

Is it time to bring your warehousing in-house—or outsource to a 3PL? As businesses grow, many find themselves weighing the control of self-managed warehousing against the scalability of third-party logistics (3PL). This post breaks down the pros and cons of each option to help you decide what’s right for your operation. Whether you’re expanding in Northern Nevada or reassessing your current logistics model, I can help you strategize your next move.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Navigating Industrial Lease Renewals: Strategies for 2025

The industrial real estate market in Northern Nevada and across the country has undergone a significant transformation over the past several years. Since 2019, average asking rents for industrial space have increased dramatically due to supply constraints, rising construction costs and surging demand driven by e-commerce, logistics and nearshoring trends. For tenants approaching lease renewal in 2025, the landscape looks very different than it did even a few years ago.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

What Are Industrial Operating Expenses (OPEX) & NNN Leases? A Quick Guide for Tenants

If you’re searching for industrial properties, you’ve probably come across terms like NNN lease, OPEX, or CAM charges. These can be confusing, especially if you’re new to commercial real estate. So, what exactly are operating expenses - and how do they affect your bottom line as a tenant?

In this guide, we’ll break down Industrial Operating Expenses (OPEX), Triple Net (NNN) leases and Common Area Maintenance (CAM)—so you can navigate your next lease with confidence.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

A Day in the Life of an Industrial Broker (It’s Not What You Think)

When people hear “industrial real estate broker,” they often picture spreadsheets, steel-toed boots and endless warehouse tours. Sure, those things happen—but the reality is a lot more interesting (and honestly, more fun).

Here’s a little peek behind the curtain of what my typical day really looks like as an industrial broker in Northern Nevada.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

My First SIOR Spring Event: Finding Belonging in the Room

Beki Dobson reflects on attending her first SIOR Spring Event in Las Vegas—an inspiring week of connection, confidence and career growth. From overcoming imposter syndrome to sharing memorable dinners with top industrial professionals, this recap highlights the power of showing up, building community and finding your place in the industry.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

What to Know Before You Lease Industrial Space in Northern Nevada

The Reno–Sparks industrial market is competitive, fast-moving and full of opportunity—but not all warehouse leases are created equal. Whether you’re a growing manufacturer, logistics provider or regional distributor, there are several critical factors to consider before signing your next lease.

Here's what to know before you lock in your next industrial space.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

SIOR Spring Event 2025: Connecting with Industry Leaders in Las Vegas

Every spring, the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR) brings together top-performing brokers from around the country for a high-impact conference focused on learning, connection and market insight. This year’s SIOR Spring Event is taking place May 6–9 in Las Vegas—and I’m excited to be attending.

As a proud industrial specialist member of the Northern California | Northern Nevada Chapter and the Independent Broker Group, I am looking forward to the opportunity this event provides to connect with industry peers, meet new colleagues and gain fresh perspective from thought leaders in the commercial and industrial real estate space.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Understanding Power in Industrial Real Estate: A Quick Guide for Tenants and Owners

In the world of industrial real estate, one topic comes up almost daily: electrical power. Whether you're a prospective tenant searching for the right warehouse space or a building owner looking to increase long-term property value, understanding power infrastructure is essential.

If you've heard terms like amps, volts and three-phase power tossed around but aren't quite sure what they mean in practice, this post is for you.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Why Reno’s Industrial Real Estate Market Is a Smart Move for Your Business

If you're considering relocating, expanding, or investing in industrial property, Reno, Nevada, should be at the top of your list. Over the last decade, Reno’s industrial market has evolved into one of the most competitive and opportunity-rich regions in the Western United States. Here's why so many businesses are choosing Reno — and how working with an experienced local advisor can make all the difference.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

As Seen in Nevada Business Magazine: Industrial Projects Transforming Nevada

Industrial projects at both ends of the state, especially big-box warehouse and distribution facilities, are playing a pivotal role in diversifying Nevada’s tourism-dependent economy. Large tracts of empty land are being transformed into industrial parks and high-tech hubs that increasingly attract out-of-state companies seeking proximity to West Coast markets without high costs and burdensome regulations.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Why Northern Nevada (Reno & Sparks) is the Best Place for Industrial Expansion

When it comes to industrial expansion, there's no better place to consider than northern Nevada, specifically the Reno - Sparks area. With its business-friendly environment, diverse economy, and easily accessible transportation options, it's no wonder why so many companies are choosing to set up shop in this region. In this blog post, we'll explore the many reasons why northern Nevada is the best place for industrial expansion and why you should consider investing in industrial real estate in Reno NV.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

Top Tips for Negotiating a Lease Agreement in Northern Nevada

Are you looking to secure an industrial property lease in Northern Nevada? Negotiating a lease agreement can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, you can secure terms that work in your favor. In this blog post, we will provide you with our top tips for negotiating a lease agreement in northern Nevada, specifically in the Reno Sparks area.

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Beki Dobson, SIOR Beki Dobson, SIOR

The Future of Manufacturing in Reno Sparks

Reno Sparks is a booming industrial activity hub in Northern Nevada, set to become an even more significant player in the manufacturing sector in the years to come. With an ideal geographical location in the center of the Western U.S. and access to major transportation networks, Reno Sparks offers a perfect investment environment for industrial manufacturing owners and operators.

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