HOUSTON -- Looking to lease a beautiful new home near the water?

Aurther Dillard advertised in a local paper saying that he could hook you up.

Harris County investigators tell us he was so good at it he rented a huge home in Spring to three different tenants.

The problem was, he didn't own it.

“He would go and put an ad out in the Greensheet saying he was leasing the house out,” said Harris County prosecutor Craig Feasel. “He was trying to scam money from these people and he was acting as a landlord.”

Investigators say he originally looked at the home with a realtor and while he was touring the 3,600 square-foot house, he must have unlocked a door.

Then after placing the ad?

“He would meet people at the houses and while he was there he would ask people for money orders or cash only,” said Feasel.

Money for a deposit.

This isn't the first time 11 News has come across something like this.

A year ago, a woman told 11 News  she received a notice to vacate the house she had been renting. Only to learn the man she had been renting from didn't actually own it.

Investigators think Dillard likely had more victims.

So, if you've had a problem with Mr. Dillard or you've been victimized in a fraud like this, the Harris County DA's office wants to hear from you. Call (713) 755-5840.

They also have a very simple, but useful tip. If you are planning to rent a home or even buy one for that matter, make sure your are dealing with the real owner.