Who holds that copyright depends on the agreement with your friend.When you use a trademark in business it becomes your trademark.

If only comparing Name Recognition only I can say "we Buy Houses®" would win hands down...When I used the trademark I Buy Houses Ugly Ones Too!

Regarding the trademark "we buy ugly houses."  

IKeep in mind that we buy houses is trademarked.  

I have but only when they violated a trademark or copy written work.    

sorry I do not remember the name of the person who said a bad name in your profession will get out faster then a good one.But after everything I heard about trade mark I am surpised they even sent a letter back...

The best brand protection is getting a registered trademark, but most businesses are not even close to that point.

Be careful when marketing to We buy Ugly houses, I believe that is trademarked by the Homevestors Franchise.

The other was not fighting homevestors after the government granted my trade mark when they appealed.

And I would consider not using "We Buy Houses" or "We Buy Ugly Houses" as they are both Trademark protected.