AOE3 wont install

AOE3 wont install sadly. First message: “Removing applications”, which from what I read elsewhere as a result of an earlier installation.
Tried all the options I could find:
-regedit clean up + using CCleaner to do the same
-copy contents 3cds to HD and try to install
-run autorun and install as administrator
Tried install on my laptop as well as pc, same result.

Anyone have a suggestion please…