First of all, I really want to thank everyone that has posted stuff about downloads help on here. It has all been really informative. Sadly, after reading ALL of them (it's taken me basically all day) I still CANNOT get downloaded objects or skins to appear in my game. I've downloaded the new patches. I have created a downloads folder. I've made sure every single file is in the proper format. I've moved the downloads folder between all three expansion pack folders I have. I'VE SIMPLY RUN OUT OF IDEAS! Does anyone know of any possible solutions I can try, because I am definitely up to anything... Thanks so much for the help!

You didn't mention it, but I assume you have also turned on custom content in the game settings? Are any downloads of any kind showing up? And have you extracted the files that you downloaded in RARs and ZIPs, and installed sims2pack files with an installer?

I can tell you youre problem already-
youre placing your files in Program Files/ Ea Games/Sims 2 arent you?
They belong in
My documents/Ea Games/Sims 2/Downloads
Do not go through your program files.