I've sent a deposit once and the guy scammed. Twice I paid before services rendered. The first, promptly told me, right after I gave him 300, that that was only for his company and even a massage would be extra. The second, I paid a masseur for three sessions in advance. After the first session he was always to busy to find time.
The lesson, when you give over your leverage you lose all power and are then at the mercy of the provider; many of whom aren't exactly forthright.
NEVER PAY A DEPOSIT!