I'm going to go with SarahS. Obey the local noise ordinances, and screw his whining. I don't think you can please this guy.
It's a shame you've invested in this property, and he's part of the package. Maybe you can come around to his good side by doing something nice for him down the line. You know - kill him with kindness. I have a neighbor who whines about everything. Her real problem is that she's lonely. We've had our ups and downs. Trying to placate a whiner can be a thankless task.
He may be an attention seeker. Be courteous, but business-like. I would minimize the time I would spend verbally engaged with him. He sounds like quite a fool. Being on decent terms with nextdoor neighbors is so important to the quiet enjoyment of one's home. He must be a basically unhappy man who has given up on having a satisfying, peaceful life.