Affirmations and visualizations definitely work. What most overlook when doing affirmations and visualizations is the role of their Inner Self or Soul, which is not exactly the subconscious mind.
Furthermore, affirmations and visualizations are often only about material things. They are typically about inanimate objects and not about the essence/emotional aspects of what is desired.
Affirmations and visualizations are really more about the alignment of one’s perspective relative to an Inner Truth. They work on a deeper level.
The need or desire that requires an affirmation is often caused by an Inner misalignment. This misalignment results in what appears as a material need. Unless the root cause is addressed by properly done affirmations and visualizations, the underlying problem will still exist.
Manifestations are produced that correspond with the level of the request made. No material solution or manifestation will completely address the perceived need or desire as long as the underlying problem exists. Seek to solve the underlying problem and allow the manifestation that results to surprise you ( Law of Attraction/Creative Process).