Origination, acquisition of mortgage loans by association

26. An association may originate or acquire mortgage loans secured by a mortgage constituting a lien upon real property or upon a lease of the fee of real property, so long as the association observes prudent lending practices, including amortization of the loans. The value of any mortgage loan shall not exceed 90 per cent of the appraised value of the mortgaged property, except for a mortgage loan that is less than $100,000 or as permitted by the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance by regulation. An association shall obtain an appropriate evaluation of the real property collateral that is consistent with safe and sound banking practices. L.1997,c.33,s.26.