The San Mateo County housing authority has launched a website -- www.smchousingsearch.org -- meant to simplify the search for houses and apartments to rent in San Mateo County.

The homepage lists eight cities and towns, including Redwood City and East Palo Alto.

Clicking through to an address brings up a description of the property, including a photo, information on the kitchen, bathroom and major appliances, square footage, regulations regarding matters such as smoking and pets, and when it is available.

The sponsors are the San Mateo County Housing Authority and the Housing Leadership Council of San Mateo County.

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