A saga involving airbnb

A friend recommended airbnb. I am in a situation which could be made easier if I stay overnight in the Berkshires. Yeah, I know. Twist my arm. But to make an extra round-trip of 100 miles seems pricey. More importantly, I know it will be tiring.
I looked into a motel where I had stayed during the off-season. Of course, the price is higher in August. I looked into airbnb and considered three places. The agency advises customers to contact prospective hosts, which I did. Two responded. Contacting a host is not making a reservation by any stretch of the imagination. I have contacted hotels and motels and even the YMCA when I had questions to ask. A query is not a commitment.
One of the hosts contacted me several times and I told her that I had made other arrangements. She wrote back that airbnb would charge her $100 for the cancellation.
This evening, I received an email from her, asking whether I had "resolved" my "issue." But there is no issue and nothing to resolve, other than her harassment. Then I noticed she had texted me. I complained to airbnb.