Realtors®
the real estate team you keep
Everyone can search. our clients have someone to call
The Home Factor is an East Bay real estate team specializing in Berkeley, Oakland, Kensington, Albany, El Cerrito, and Richmond homes. Founded by Declan Spring and Denitsa Shopova, the team combines market judgement, design sense, financial literacy, negotiation expertise, property preparation, and long-term homeowner guidance to help buyers and seller make informed real estate decisions.
“Declan & Denitsa went above and beyond to help us make our dream of owning a beautiful house come true. They actively listened to our list of wants and needs in a home and helped us find the perfect one for our family. They were so knowledgeable, guided us carefully throughout the entire process, and provided amazing referrals when we needed them. We can’t say enough about them and how much we appreciate everything they did for us - they are incredible all around, and there is no way we’d be where we’re at without their unwavering help and support along the way. Thank you so much, Declan & Denitsa!”
-TINA
The East Bay Real Estate Podcast
Conversations about the East Bay real estate market and the forces shaping it.
Master the East Bay housing market through conversations with the people who know it best. Hosted by Declan Spring, this podcast goes beyond the transaction to explore the stories, personalities, and real-world forces shaping real estate across Berkeley, Oakland, Richmond, and the surrounding East Bay communities.
Each episode features thoughtful conversations with top agents, lenders, developers, historians, and local voices who influence how the market actually works. From pricing strategy and buyer behavior to neighborhood dynamics and industry shifts, the show offers an inside look at the craft, challenges, and character of East Bay real estate
success
Ranked among the Top 1.5% of all real estate agents in the Inner East Bay
Overseen successful transactions of
350+ properties
valued over
$250M+
Our listings sell an average of
20% over list
in an average of just
15 days
Data source: MLS. Ranking based on single unit dwellings in the Inner East Bay, Jan 2022 - Jun 2023. Listing stats based on single-unit dwelling transactions, Jan - Jun 2023.
NEWS
Featured PROPERTY
1221 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Berkeley
This Berkeley Hills gem on iconic Grizzly Peak Boulevard, offering sweeping, unobstructed views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, and Bay, from nearly every room, is as smart as it is beautiful. A modern, classic brown shingle exterior blends timeless character with thoughtful upgrades and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
The light-filled interior features hardwood floors, expansive windows, and a striking wooden staircase topped by a lantern skylight. The primary suite includes a private view balcony, while the bedroom-level laundry adds modern ease. Multiple outdoor spaces including Trex decking, a kitchen-side patio, and a private side yard from a second ensuite bedroom create easy indoor outdoor living.
Extensively improved for resilience and efficiency, the home includes significant seismic upgrades with a moment frame, 27 solar panels, Tesla Powerwall, mini-split heat pumps, EV charger, and Zone Zero compliance. With a Home Energy Score of 10, this is a rare blend of Berkeley charm and high-tech peace of mind.
A two car attached garage plus off street parking for two adds rare convenience. Ideally located near Tilden Park, the UC Botanical Garden, and just minutes to UC Berkeley and North Berkeley amenities.
