Should I have my work edited by a freelance editor before seeking publication?

Question

I have a friend who is a freelance editor and I was planning on employing her to look over my novel before shopping it out to publishers. However, I don't know if publishers like this or not.Do they hear freelance editor and cringe? Do they get weird about editing something that has already been edited? Or is it a boon that makes their job easier?__Should I have my work edited by a freelance editor before seeking publication?__

Answer 1

Hi there, I thought I responded recently but it's not showing up! Anyway, cringe they should not. Definitely, definitely work with an editor! Any professional agent or publisher should be fully appreciative of you working to polish your manuscript before sending it out. If there are edits they disagree with, that will be dealt with when they sign you. Good luck! (I'm a manuscript editor so reach out if you need me:) )