Full refund due to Covid-19 for Jan 2021 booking, even though current 'extentuating circumstances' refund clause is only up to Aug now?

[Doug732]

I have contacted the owner regarding a full refund for a booking I made over a year ago for January 2021, due to my concerns over air travel and staying in Puerto Vallarta with the current Covid 19 crisis.  I reasoned with this much notice he could refill the spot, and for much more as he has since increased his rate.    He has agreed, I just need to know that airbnb won't make a fuss because they are only allowing that up till Aug currently, and that I will be refunded the whole amount, minus the service fee (13%?), before I go ahead with this (otherwise I will wait and see if airbnb will extend it still further).  Is it in the host's power to give a 100% refund, or airbnb?  Thanks!

[Nanxing0]

As hosts we are only allowed to give full refund besides the service fee. The service fee is charged by Airbnb and we have no control. As far as I know Airbnb is more strict on the service fee than what we even have for the cancellation policy.  If you have problem with the service fee not-refundable you may contact the customer service see if they are willing to waive it though. 

You can also choose to wait and see if Airbnb will extend the service fee refund policy later. Your travel date is still far so you don't really need to cancel it right now though. Situation is subject to change.