My Suzi is nearly 5 months old. I guess I am different. Mostly, because i live in a 2 bedroom condo. I have used pee pads from day one, and allow Suzi to go whereever she likes. I feel like potty accidents are a part of owning a puppy .I just deal with it. Suzi is mostly trained too . Maybe I am permissive, but, I just did not want to use a crate, I enjoy suzi's company, and feel like she is a member of the family. I clean up after her, and feel like it is no big deal.
Best wishes to you.