Painting Contractor wants 50% down for labor only deal

[Sylvia H.]

I have a house that needs to be painted. Painting contractor is someone I've never heard of or dealt with. The painter wants 50% down (6,000 dollars) for a job that should take no longer than a week. Since I don't know this person I don't want to give him that much money upfront because I may never see him again. I looked him up online and there was only 1 review albeit positive. Does anyone know of a way around this? Perhaps an escrow company? Appreciate the help. Thanks