When do I pay 1st month rent on a apt im going to lease?

[Daniel Gonzalez]

Hello everyone!

So tomorrow i'm going to meet up with the landlord to sign a lease on an apartment.He is asking me to pay for the application fee and he is also asking for first months rent. This is my first time renting/leasing so i don't know if i'm new at this but wouldn't i give the first months rent after i get approved and not before?I just feel nervous just handing a random guy money. I have no criminal background,excellent credit and a good job so i don't think ill have a problem with the application. But what if they deny me?The landlord says if they deny me he will return the money but like i said why doesn't he just wait till they approve me then give him first months rent? Also is there a legal document anyone has that will state if i give him first months rent and get denied i will get my money back.

Thank you