When is deposit and rent usually collected? (agreement, renter, security deposit)

[Big-Bucks]

Is the security deposit and rent normally collected all up front and at the time of signing the agreement or do landlords usually give a little time?

[Mr_Geek]

Every place I've ever lived in required the security deposit and first month's rent before they would hand over the keys. Not getting both before handing over the keys defeats the purpose of collecting them.

[StPaulGal]

Originally Posted by Mr_Geek

Every place I've ever lived in required the security deposit and first month's rent before they would hand over the keys. Not getting both before handing over the keys defeats the purpose of collecting them.

Precisely.

Renter and landlord sign the lease. Renter hands over a check for rent and deposit. Landlord hands over the keys. If one cannot pay the money due, they definitionally cannot afford the place.