Which make & model antenna did you choose? Did you also purchase an amplifier? If so, what make & model?
Just to be sure, here are diagrams that demonstrate how to aim various types of antennas:
http://www.kyes.com/antenna/pointing/pointing.html (As I drive around, it's sad to see so many antennas aimed 180° or 90° away from the direction toward the towers.)
Some satellite system components look similar to over the air splitters but do not pass OTA frequencies effectively. Have you removed all such components?
Were the cable connectors sealed against the weather since the old satellite system was decommissioned? If water has entered the coax cable, it should be replaced. I'd suggest you get a new cable with connectors already installed, use it to test the antenna, simply run directly from the antenna to a single TV, through an open door or window, to verify your trouble is with the antenna, or the old satellite cable.
I see a chimney in your photo. That would be an excellent mounting option because it puts the antenna at a higher point, with a better view. Here's an example of chimney mounting hardware:
http://www.3starinc.com/ez29-36s_y_c...a_bracket.html