@Gail762
iIts very easy to make reservations last minute. A few suggestions to help clear things up.
Each host can select Instaant Booking or Request to book. InstT booking means guests can make reservations without host approval. You may still have this option even with no reviews depending on host settings.
For request to book, I suggest completing profile and verifying ID. Airbnb may require this anyway.
Include basic first message. A little about youself, couple traveling three weeks, that would take perfect care of everything, etc.
If it’s request to book mention that if you don’t hear back in an hour or so you may need to retract the booking request. (No penalty to either guest or host)
You could also send out inquiries to prospective host before booking or booking request with introduction message and ask them if that might be good fit. If it’s a thoughtful message you should get very positive response.
Just communicate through Airbnb messages. Host don’t ask for any other payment or book on some other site. This won’t be an issue if they have reviews.
Have reasonable expectations. The listing should be accurate and clean.
Have a back up if AC isn’t working or something.
I doubt you would encounter any real issues but reach out to hist of ABB if something is really wrong.