There are a lot of pros and cons to both sides of this argument. However, construction can take a major toll on any trees in the property due to various reasons. Major roots can be cut when they dig the foundations, soil can be compacted by vehicles and various other machinery brought in for the work. Because trees tend to be on a slower timetable than humans are, they may not show the damage until a couple of years later when they may suddenly die or get weak enough to become diseased or infested with termites or other insects. They may unexpectedly fall if the roots were cut.

The pros to clearing near the house are that you can have the soil properly sloped away from the home. You can always plant new trees if desired. Also, if you don't have any trees near the house you won't have to worry about the trees dropping branches, leaves, or other things on the roof or potentially falling on the house in a bad storm.

The pros to keeping mature trees are that they provide a wind break. They either block or allow the sun to shine on your home which is a passive energy saver. Obviously they are beautiful! They also break up your carbon footprint by offsetting it. They can also attract birds and other wildlife that you can enjoy watching.