Brick homes are a bit more expensive but very low maintenance costs make it appealing. Weatherboard or wood has a nice look. Maintenance costs are a little higher due to having to paint every 8 to 10 years.
Plaster homes built between in 1990 and 2004 can have issues. Basically the issues were mainly due to attaching the plaster board directly on the framing. Any slight cracks not maintained would allow water to get in and slowly rot the framing. Some weathered much better however, possibly due to slightly different designs and very regular painting and maintenance.
The building rules changed circa 2005. The requirement of a 20 millimeter gap between the outside walls and the frame has meant the newer ones are more reliable. However regular painting and maintenance is important with these types of cladding.
A building inspection before you buy is important.
