Or do I need to dedicate myself to flipping to really benefit from a deal like that?

Depending on the modesty of lifestyle, the majority of dividends can be reinvested in the "business".The potential for growth is tremendous.That's what I would do with 3M dedicated to real estate investment if I had limited/zero experience with real estate/property management.

There was never a dedication as to a park, it never was deeded to either the municipality or the HOA, there was no playground or park equipment on site, not even a park bench. 

It takes a lot of hard work, on-going education, and dedication to flip and turn a profit.

Im presently building my buyers list and while I may be inexperienced my dedication vision and enthusiasm have proved me sucessful in  all I have done  At present my business in Barbados(home of sea sun rum cake and rihanna) has many superb land and customised  home packages that generate great equity and investment opportunities so that's what I've been working on but the American market is where I truly wish to explore and expand as it has the most opportunity so that I can then implement my vision of a better community and eco friendly lifestyle.

Or a compilation of books to read for the different aspects of real estate investing say a section dedicated for books that pertain to buy-and-hold or flipping etc..?

We work with full disclosure as our platform in building solid long term relationships with our buyers and prospective buyers.

I'm so pleased to find such a platform to share and learn.

Does the custodian offer you a dedicated person to know your story and investment profile or do you speak with someone new each time you call in?

However, there is a great blogging platform called ActiveRain.