Answers

If you currenlty have a house that is part brick and part siding (as opposed to all brick)... paint it.  If it's all brick with only wood trim accents, get a designers opinion.  If painting, be sure to use a premium bonding latex primer (like Gripper) and finish coat.  It'll make the house appear bigger and cleaner.  Most moisture will work its way through premium latex finishes and if it's enough moisture coming through the wall to deteriorate brick or cause your paint to peel, you've got a bigger issue to address.

Sherwin Williams Duration Exterior Satin finish is the only way to go.  If you don't have the ability to reside or replace your paint-needing product with something maintenance free.... Duration.