Fly to Recife then take an internal flight down to Maceio. Stay at the Hotel Jatiuca, a truly fabulous beach hotel. Rents are high, and will be now at London levels. In the past the effect of inflation was such that this quickly dropped down in real terms. This is unlikely to be the case any more unless inflation starts again.
Flats are far more secure than houses.
As a foreigner you will stand out and you house will probably attract attention even if your property is guarded 24 hours a day. Houses are normally rented unfurnished. The problem is finding a reliable one. I used to take a photo of any new maid and tell her that my company was going to check her details with the authorities. Get hold of her work book and hang onto it.