1. I can't see into the brake lever housings, so to seat the cable housing, I threaded the cable through the lever and out by the handlebar. I then fed the housing onto the cable, and pushed it (no ferrule) in until it stopped. Is that reasonable, or is there some way to insure that the housing seats properly?

2. The ferrules I got had a little plastic near the hole, plus a little brass washer holding it in place. These impede the movement of the cable somewhat. Are these OK for brake cables? I assume they are designed to prevent grit from getting into the cable.

3. Grease or no grease on the cables? I've seen recommendations for both ways. Argument for no grease is that it doesn't attract grit.

Thanks!

That's the way I've done it. I make sure the housing is cut clean and square and it finishes seating itself after a few oh s#!t moments.

I'd have to see it. Most of the ones I've seen with little rubber boots and things were intended for locations subject to more road spray and mud with just a ferrule used elsewhere.

You don't need it. I do use a little Pedro's Liquid X on my shifter cables though.