Just a note about the pregnancy thing...

My husband (who is Swiss) and I were under the impression that it would be easier finding a new place to live as a family, but seems to be just the opposite. We've been searching for a little over 4 months and the questions you mentioned are very common place. It seems the Swiss (especially the elderly) like to complain about any noise a baby or child will make. During a few of our interviews they seemed quite interested until they discovered I am pregnant. Most landlords are looking for 1 person, who's never home (or as quiet as mouse 24x7) and has a very high paying job.

Between the single Zürich banker pulling in well over 6,000sfr a month and the mechanic making a little over 4,000sfr together with a pregnant wife (or kids) who's currently not working... who would you pick?

BTW... after looking at over 25 apartments, due beginning of April and visiting at least 1-2 apartments on a daily basis, we still have not been accepted.