First-time buyers, home movers, or customers looking to switch to a better deal will be able to book a free, no-obligation appointment with a mortgage specialist in selected branches.

The lender has seven specialists situated in five of its main branches in Birmingham, Solihull, Walsall, Luton and Norwich, with plans to roll out more across its regional branches in the coming months.

Mike Cook, head of Post Office Mortgages said it had followed feedback from customers who said they would welcome the opportunity to discuss their requirements face to face before committing to a mortgage.

The specialists will not be offering regulated advice.

“Our mortgage specialists will be able to discuss each individuals needs and answer questions to help customers make an informed decision about the suitability of the products. They are there to assist our customers through the mortgage process.

“We understand that there will be some customers who will want overall advice on whether or not they should take out a mortgage, or they have complex financial needs in which case they will be recommended to seek independent financial advice in the market from a broker.”

“If the Mortgage Market Review comes out and says that all face to face reviews must be advised, then we will have to change our model accordingly.”

The Post Office confirmed that its specialists will sell own-brand products.

Cook added: “We are one of the fastest growing financial services providers in the UK and we are constantly looking at ways to offer new services to our customers.

“By introducing mortgage specialists in our branches, we are taking the next step in fulfilling our ambition to become one of the top providers in the market place and to be a genuine alternative to the established high street providers.”