Nah, you're not being a pest. It's all good!!
So going with the factory reset option, what I would recommend is instead of replacing the whole Sims 3 folder. Just replace some folders/files. But first I would try a test - Start a new game to make sure things are running okay.
Do not put in mods or custom content. Just go with creating a new test game to see how things are working out. If everything seems fine. Go ahead and copy/paste the following things into the new Sims 3 folder.
-- Folders:-
DCCache Contains all installed Custom Content/Exchange/Store items that you installed through the Launcher.
-
Downloads and Exports - Files you want to save = Sims/houses/commercial lots/store content
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Saves - Game File Saves
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SavedSims - Raw Sim people Files that you'll find in the Sim Bin
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Screenshots - Photos taken in-game using the C key.
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Recorded Videos - Videos taken in-game using the V key.
-
Mods - Game mods and custom content
-- Files:*
Options.ini - Video and game options
*
userPresets.package - Saved patterns/textures/colors
Click the link below if you want to read in more detail about How to do a factory reset.
Sims 3 Factory Reset (What & Howto)
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg401814#msg401814