cancellation without either party getting hit

[Kelly21]

I accepted a reservation but the couple was not ready, can I cancell without either one of us taking a hit.

[Dave-and-Deb0]

Hi @Kelly21,

DO NOT CANCEL as the penalties to you are huge.  

https://www.airbnb.ca/help/article/990/how-do-host-cancellation-penalties-work

Have the guest cancel and if you wish to refund them the cancellation fee, you can using the resolution center.  

The Resolution Center

The only thing the guest will not get back is the Airbnb guest fee.

I hope this helps!

Dave