I have been puzzling about the widespread use of the word "residential complex" in this case.

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A massive fire that tore through several large apartment buildings in Hong Kong's northern Tai Po district has killed at least 36 people and left 279 missing, the city's authorities have said. on.ft.com/3Ki0XUs
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In Hong Kong local English, we always call it "residential estate"

it's obvious that some native English editor thinks "complex" make more sense to English readers.

But... as an English reader, what do you think a "residential complex" means to you? Is it more native and generic to you?