stays reasonably small (not too tall or wide as to block the front of our new home)

a 50 foot english oak is relatively small compared to a 100 foot oal ...

i think we need numbers .. to understand your wishes ...

ken

Oh no! We are thinking more in the area of 20' tall and 25' wide when fully mature.

Thank you very much!

cornus kousa

cornus kousa 'satomi'

What is your USDA hardiness zone? Need more info.

Cornus florida if they do well there. Kousa is the choice if they do not.

Oh, they all probably prefer some shade in Kentucky.

Redbud is good for sunny spots in my yard but typically has marginal fall color where the native dogwood is as good as anything and kousa is pretty darned good.

A male Fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus)?
Fringe Tree — The Best Native Tree Nobody Grows

I've never understood why people want to avoid hiding the front of their
house. If the front of your house is hidden, it means privacy. It may
also mean protection from summer sun or winter north winds (depending
on climate and orientation).

Eastern Red Bud should fit the bill. Pink flowers very early. Yellow color in the fall.

cercis canadensis is my favorite tree.

If you're looking at redbuds don't forget to check out some of the newer varieties- 'Merlot' is a great red one that stands up to summer heat and drought really well, 'Alley Cat,' 'Carolina Sweetheart' and 'Silver Cloud' have wonderful variegated foliage, and I dare anyone to find a better looking tree than 'Rising Sun.' Lots of others, too- even white flowering if that pink isn't your thing- it all depends on the color of your home and your preferences.

I really like the variegated redbuds! I am not even the OP! I must have one.......