What difference would it make for you?

Well, paying an at-cost price would mean it is inherently cheaper as the government wouldn't be trying to turn a profit, merely charge an amount that compensates for upkeep.

Many of these mortgages are government funded anyway.

But is still building equity for a private individual.

my government is far more inept and corrupt than any landlord I’ve ever dealt with

I have a say in my government though, at least theoretically. I think housing (at least primary housing) shouldn't be a for-profit industry, so I advocate against it via my government.