Yeah, if you're concerned about someone taking the art and running, ask for the money first. Or, if you're not comfortable with the idea of having the money before having a product to give in return, you could always go for a half-and-half deal. Half at the start, along with what the commission is to be of... and then get the other half at the end once they're satisfied with the results.
So, even in the case of someone (read: a jerk) taking the art and running, you still got at least half the money for it. Not quite as good as all the money, but it's a decent alternative.
So, even in the case of someone (read: a jerk) taking the art and running, you still got at least half the money for it. Not quite as good as all the money, but it's a decent alternative.
~