Respected companies often require 100% up front...but so do scam artists
We now do 100% up front. Our clients know that they will get quality and we have a good rep and thus most our clients are word of mouth...they have no problem with it.
Basically i'd say if you hear about them from other people who have a good experience then you're good to go. If not, request 50/50 system. Either way though you're putting money on the line so i'd say just go for someone who gets good recomendations...may i suggest
www.bluewirestudio.com? 