I prefer it to the other, similar view you posted. The closest houses are nicely lit. When the background is in shadow (or not lit so strongly) this naturally throws the foreground forwards, and creates different planes... which give give a pic (the illusion of) depth. I also prefer a part-cloudy sky to all blue, 'cos then the light is more directional; sunlight from an unclouded sky can give an 'over-lit' look... like a bare bulb in a room. And the patches of light and shadow will enable you to 'light up' a particular feature of the landscape... if you have the patience...
Oh, and clone out the foliage on the right, or crop it...
Thanks for the feedback and explanation. It's because of comments like these that I feel I am learning something as I embark on this journey of a new hobby. I too like this shot better than the one from last week, but I would be hard pressed to tell you why exactly. So I was glad to hear a more 'technical' take on the difference between the two.
Again, thanks for taking the time to critique. Much appreciated.