§ 33-11-26 — Chattel mortgage loans

(a) In connection with a loan on the security of real estate designed and used primarily for residential purposes only, which loan was acquired pursuant to Code Section 33-11-25 , an insurer may lend or invest an amount not exceeding 20 percent of the amount loaned on or invested in the real estate mortgage or loan deed on the security of a chattel mortgage to be amortized by regular periodic payments within a term of not more than five years, and representing a first and prior lien, except for taxes not then delinquent, on personal property constituting durable equipment owned by the mortgagor or security grantor and kept and used in the mortgaged premises. (b) For the purpose of this Code section, the term "durable equipment" shall include only mechanical refrigerators, air-conditioning equipment, mechanical laundering machines, heating and cooking stoves and ranges, and, in addition, in the case of apartment houses and hotels, room furniture and furnishings. (c) Prior to the acquisition of a chattel mortgage as prescribed by this Code section, items of property to be included in such mortgage shall be separately appraised by a qualified appraiser and the fair market value of such items of property determined. No chattel mortgage loan shall exceed in amount the same ratio of loan to the value of the property as is applicable to the companion loan on the real property. (d) This Code section shall not prohibit an insurer from taking liens on personal property as additional security for any investment otherwise eligible under this article.