@Brian-and-Tosha0
I'm not sure i have this right because I have personally never experienced this, BUT i think you can only use the request money feature after the guest has paid in full. Usually that is at least one full week before check in - I think - more experienced guests can advise.
I don't believe airbnb see it as an "issue" that needs fixing - rather a protocol that they have in place.
I highly doubt it will be changed.
Hosts have been complaining and requesting changes to a great many things for years and years, and very little appears to alter.
Hopefully someone will be along shortly who is more experienced and knows for sure..