Also note that buying and selling upgrades is against the Mileage Plus program rules. if you do decide to purchase the SWUs, that decision is totally up to you, but don't let United know (they often ask how you got them if you're not a 1K). If you tell them you bought them, your friend will likely have his Mileage Plus account closed, you will lose the upgrades, and may be charged the full C fare as recompense.