When we first moved here a year ago, we sent our deposit using moneygram. We did meet the owner during one of our trips and felt comfortable doing so. We didn't have any issues at all.
Regarding the remarks about renting a place you haven't seen in person, i will say this, based on my experience in looking for a new home (our lease is up and we'd like a bigger place)...pics can be very deceiving, especially if you can't see the surrounding area. There have been some houses that look great...and they do, but the area they are in look like something out of an Antonio Banderas movie...you expect to see a shoot out in the streets.
I don't know what you're situation is so you may not have a choice. I'm just adding my 2 cents based on current and past experience.
HTH and Good Luck.