Welcome to the Blueboards. Story editors are great as a near last step in the process. First, if you haven't done so already, please consider a critique group. There are places on the board where you can find them and where SCBWI members can post manuscripts or sections for critique. Your region may also be able to help you locate a great critique group. That way you're as ready as you can be before you pay an editor. You don't want to ending up paying more than once.