September 1 marks the first day of the Third Annual National Home Furnishings Month, running through Sept. 30. More than 10,100 retail stores and brand leaders from across the U.S. are participating, an 11 percent increase in retail participation over last year.

The month includes theIs It Home Yet?campaign, sponsored by International Market Centers. A complimentary service to retailers, the campaign offers consumers advice on home décor and features a Home Mortgage or Rent Sweepstakes, giving homeowners or renters the chance to win either mortgage or rent payments for one year.

"National Home Furnishings Month is back and this year the program is even more exciting, more encompassing than previous years," said Robert Maricich, International Market Centers ceo. "By expanding the sweepstakes to include renters as well as homeowners-coupled with greater retail partnerships and marketing support-we believe the third run of National Home Furnishings Month will deliver powerful results. This promotional campaign will enable furnishings retailers to reach new consumers with a united message, energizing families to discover the joy in redecorating their living spaces while liberating them from the burden of their mortgage or rent payments for one year."