Two hosts with open calendars - one let booking expire, the other asked me to withdraw and rebook

[Jami2182]

OK, so I am trying to book a stay in London for 3 nights. I am selecting the "pay half now option" and am wondering if that is why the hosts don't want to accept my request -? 

The first said her dates would not work, even though they were open when I made the request. 

The second said he "had his own way of booking" and asked me to withdraw and request again. Which seems very odd to me anyway I look at it, but then I thought maybe it is because I selected to "pay half now". I would pay the whole thing if I knew people would accept my booking, but since it is my understanding they don't get paid until booking day, what is the difference? Or are these guests just holding out for higher prices? 

I'm confused and this is VERY ANNOYING. I've never had it happen before. 

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Jami2182 Hosts do not see anything different when a guest pays half now and half later. I fear there are a lot of scammers in London but there are also many good hosts. Just make sure you read the reviews carefully.