Some trees can tolerate a lot of water while others can tolerate a lot of heat and drought. Soggy ground will kill a red oak but make a bald cypress very happy. This will keep the roots cooler and conserve moisture during the summer. Do trim limbs that are going to end up touching your house while they are still small. Do pull up small tree seedlings planted by nature that have started to grow under power lines, in your flower bed or too close to the house or fence while they are still very small.
Cottonwoods are very easy to spot and even easier to pull up.
After you have considered all of the above you need to consult a reference book to get more detailed information about a particular variety or species of tree to determine what the mature size is or other characteristics that can affect its suitability in your landscape. You can also ask your local nurseryman which tree or shrub they would suggest for your particular situation.