But I am a Mexican citizen so I'm sure that helps.

Some properties are eligible for coverage by Florida Citizens Property Insurance Corp, which is guaranteed by the state.

I had to go to citizens insurance (state insurer of last resort) on one of them. 

Petersburg, one other thought...Because of the new Rules for Homeowners Insurance in Florida where the Governor signed into Law that anyone using Citizens Insurance will be required to pay for Flood Insurance, which is a Federal program.

Any property built before 1957 is on the "hit list" - limiting you to the insurer of last resort in Florida, Citizens. 

If you choose to, as a US citizen and non-resident you are eligible for a mortgage from a Canadian lender.

I've found Citizen Business Bank to be by far the best bank for an escrow account of the type required by law for property management companies. 

Does anyone have any experience buying land/property in Brazil as a US citizen?

We use a company called Citizens Home Solutions.

Can I get a loan from a US bank, and would my terms usually be worse than a US citizen (even though I am sure I can negotiate the terms)?