How to Turn Trash Loot into Profit with Item Mods in PoE 2
In Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2), it’s easy to pick up piles of loot that seem worthless. But with a smart approach, even low-tier gear can become a source of real profit—thanks to item modifiers, crafting, and understanding the trade market. This guide will walk you through how to turn what looks like trash into treasure, especially if you're looking to stock up on PoE 2 items or want to eventually buy PoE 2 items with your hard-earned currency.
Step 1: Identify the Right Base ItemsThe first step in making money with item mods is to learn which base items are actually valuable. Not all items are created equal. For example, if you find a six-socket chestpiece—even if it's white—it can still be sold for a decent amount of Jeweller’s Orbs. Items with specific base types (like certain boots with high movement speed or gloves that support attack builds) also tend to be more valuable when properly crafted. Use the item filter to help highlight these potential moneymakers.
Step 2: Use Basic Currency WiselyInstead of selling everything to vendors, consider using Orbs of Alteration, Chaos Orbs, or Orbs of Alchemy to reroll mods on gear with good bases. For example, let’s say you have a Royal Burgonet with high armor. If you roll +life and +resistances, that helmet becomes highly valuable for early-game players. Use currency smartly—don’t waste Exalted Orbs on bad bases. Divine Orbs are particularly hot in PoE 2's market, so items with perfect rolls are worth a lot more.
Step 3: Master Mod CombinationsSome item mods are more desirable than others. Look for gear with the “Tri-Res” combo (three elemental resistances), life, or stats like Strength/Dexterity. Weapons with high elemental damage and increased attack speed also sell fast. Using Orbs of Augmentation or Regal Orbs can turn a magic item into a rare one with more potential. Combine this with Fossils or Essences (which are great for targeted crafting), and you can turn a 1 Chaos Orb item into something worth 10 Chaos or more.
Step 4: Check the Trade Market RegularlyA good way to know whether your item is worth something is to compare it with similar listings on trade websites or in-game trade channels. Many players who buy PoE 2 items look for specific modifiers. If your item has them, you’re in luck. If not, consider rerolling it or selling it for crafting components.
Step 5: Use U4GM for Extra EfficiencyIf you're short on time or just want a faster route to progress, you can also buy PoE 2 items from trusted marketplaces like U4GM. They offer a secure and quick way to get the currency or gear you need. Whether you're chasing a six-link armor or trying to finish your elemental resistances, purchasing from U4GM can give you a competitive edge.

Step 6: Vendor Recipes Can Add UpDon’t ignore vendor recipes. For example, selling a full set of rare gear with item level 60-74 gives you a Chaos Orb. Sets with ilvl 75+ return Regal Orbs. These are easy to collect while mapping and can give you a steady currency flow that eventually allows you to craft better items or buy high-end PoE 2 items when needed.
Final Tip: Keep Learning and ExperimentingThe more you understand about item mods, the better you’ll become at spotting valuable loot. Use the in-game crafting bench, delve fossils, and currency crafting to experiment. Over time, what seems like "trash loot" will become your goldmine.
Turning low-value drops into profit takes patience, knowledge, and a bit of luck—but it’s one of the most satisfying ways to make currency in PoE 2. Start small, learn the market, and don't be afraid to invest in PoE 2 items when the opportunity is right. Happy farming!