How do I know my money is safe?

You know your money is safe when it is not in the agency's possession. Ask who holds it, whether that company is licensed and independent, whether you receive statements directly, and whether the agency has signing authority. At PLS the answers are: a licensed independent escrow agent you can choose; yes, licensed; yes, directly; no. If an agency holds funds in its own accounts, or will not name the escrow company, walk away.