New Yorkie on the way!

[rachelstothoff]

Hi everyone! This is my very first post, I've been reading many training threads and general question threads, but was wondering if I could get some personalized advice!
This new puppy will be my very first, she will be coming home December 28th or 29th. I want to have a schedule and training plan in place. I am planning on getting an 8 panel xpen that her crate can attach to. Her crate will be her "den" and xpen her play, potty, and feeding area. Each xpen panel is 24x24inches, so these will create a pretty large space!
I plan to pee pee pad train her until early spring around March, I want to transition to her using pads on my covered balcony, I live in apartment building. How exactly would I make that transition? Then once she is a little older, and has more control, will she be able to learn to use the grass outside? About what age would this be? Also, I would like to train her to ring a bell, so I do not have to guess when to take her down the stairs and outside to the grassy areas, so should I incorporate the bell right away, or once she starts on the balcony?
Thank you all so much in advance!!