(a) The department may purchase and take assignments from mortgage lenders or the federal government of notes and other obligations, including contracts for deed and mortgages, evidencing loans or interest in loans for the construction, remodeling, improvement, rehabilitation, purchase, leasing, or refinancing of housing developments for individuals and families of low and very low income and families of moderate income.
(b) The department may sell, at public or private sale, with or without public bidding, a mortgage or other obligation held by the department.