@duderave Please create a new folder on the root level of your C drive, for example C:\Games, and try to install Sims 3 there. Uncheck all the DLC for now; you can always download the packs later if the base game installs properly. If simply choosing C:\Games (or whatever you name the folder) doesn't work, try C:\Games\The Sims 3.
The issue with HELS may well be an account issue, but the EA people who might be able to answer questions about that aren't going to be around for a couple of days because of the holiday weekend in the U.S. If the above doesn't work, let me know, and I'll flag your thread; just understand you might not get an answer right away.
I am having basically the exact same issue as the OP. I tried both your solutions, but it didn't work for me and I think it's because no matter what I do, it won't download the base game. Even when I unselect all the expansion packs (I have 5) and tell it to only download the base game, it defaults to trying to download High End Loft Stuff and pauses or errors right away.
I did contact EA with all the details and am waiting to hear back
@xboydivisionx Please post a screenshot of the error you're seeing.
I am having the same exact issue and I've tried fixing it in so many ways. I have Generations, High End Loft, Late Night, Supernatural, Ambitions, Into the future, Island Paradise, Pets, Seasons, Showtime, University Life and World adventures. It always tries to install High End Loft first but it doesn't show up on the add on list for me to uncheck it when trying to install
.png){kind=link}
.png){kind=link}