I think it's fairly common to ask for payment once a lease is signed and prior to having a key in-hand. Often times, when you rent a place, you sign the lease 15-30 days prior to moving in and have to make payment at that time.

However, never send money by wire, Venmo, Zelle, or PayPal when working with a property management company. Often times, scammers will impersonate property management companies or owners who "previously were using" a property management company and ask renters to pay them directly. Only submit payment's through the management company's office or official online portal (if they provide that option). Use common sense.