For my gf (in the usa), it's aesthetics. Though I look at brick and think "longevity." Perhaps historically it was cheaper/easier to use local wood and that image stuck with people?
Nothing is built with brick anymore. If you see a newer than 1940s brick house, its a stick frame (wood) with a layer of brick outside it for aesthetics. Also people associate brick with longevity, but as several of my friends in old ass brick row homes, their foundations are crumbling, and are usually in need of serious structural repair. Brick isnt bomb proof like people think it is. Its even more susceptible to long term stress from wind shear.